MMA Champion to be Honored By Local Fans Before Title Defense

(PRESS RELEASE) -- As Glendale residents gear up for the arrival of World Extreme Cagefighting® at Jobing.com Arena on Dec. 16, the city is pulling out all the stops to show support for their hometown champion.

WEC and Jobing.com Arena announced today that on Dec. 14, just days before Lightweight Champion and Glendale resident Ben Henderson defends his title against Anthony Pettis, the local hero will be recognized at a rally to be held at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville in the Westgate City Center.

The festivities, which kick off at 5:30pm MT, will feature appearances by Phoenix Coyotes mascot Howler, WEC founder Reed Harris, Jobing.com Arena executives, Glendale city officials and the 27-year-old Henderson.

Fans in attendance will have the chance to win tickets to the Dec. 16 event at Jobing.com Arena, as well as cool WEC merchandise. In addition, local radio station 93.3 KDKB will be participating with on-site promotions.

"It's always been a dream of mine to fight in front of my hometown fans in Glendale," Henderson said. "The city is such a great place and I'm truly blessed and honored that they've put together this rally."

Members of the media are encouraged to attend the rally and film or photograph this special occasion!

Rally for Ben Henderson Tuesday December 14th at 5:30 pm

WHO: Ben Henderson, WEC Lightweight Champion and Glendale resident Reed Harris, WEC Founder and General Manager Howler, Phoenix Coyotes mascot

WHAT: Rally for Glendale resident and World Champion Ben Henderson

WHERE: Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville 6751 North Sunset Boulevard #E109 Glendale, Arizona 85305 (623) 772-0011

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 14th, 5:30pm