After Pondering Retirement, Benson Henderson Re-Signs with Bellator MMA

Benson Henderson still has more to accomplish in Bellator MMA.

The former UFC lightweight champion has signed an exclusive, multi-fight contract with the promotion, Bellator officials announced on Wednesday. Henderson concluded his previous deal at Bellator 273, winning a split decision over Islam Mamedov on Jan. 29.

Shortly after that victory, Henderson mulled the possibility that he had competed for the last time within the California-based organization.

“I don’t know how much longer I’ll be doing this for Bellator, so I wanted to soak it all in,” Henderson said at the Bellator 273 post-fight press conference. “I’m not sure if this is going to be my last fight or not, so I wanted to enjoy it, wanted to enjoy the ‘W,’ enjoy getting my hand raised. I might keep going, I might not, so we’ll find out.”

Ultimately, “Smooth” decide to make another run in Bellator. He’ll enter his new contract on the momentum of his win over Mamedov, who had been unbeaten in 20 professional appearances prior to facing Henderson. Overall, Henderson is 6-6 in Bellator competition with notable wins against Mamedov, Patricio Freire and Myles Jury.

.@BensonHenderson has re-signed an exclusive multi-fight contract with @BellatorMMA. pic.twitter.com/JUW4wpkHjN

— Bellator Public Relations (@BellatorPR) March 23, 2022