UFC 88 Preview: Dan Henderson vs. Rousimar Palhares

Dan Henderson (22-7, 2-2 UFC) vs. Rousimar Palhares (8-1, 1-0 UFC)

Another middleweight bout features former Pride fighter Dan Henderson and UFC newcomer Rousimar Palhares.

Dan Henderson last two fights ended in losses, but considering the competition, Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson and Anderson Silva, amends can be made. Henderson's wrestling talent is Olympic class, though he doesn't throw his medals in disgust. Also Henderson fought and beat some of the top talent in Pride including Wanderlei Silva.

Rousimar Palhares is largely a new quantity. His one fight in the UFC was beating Ivan Salaverry who promptly retired after losing the bout. Besides that I know virtually nothing other than his Fight Finder statistics and Wiki page.

The fight appears to be given to Henderson to build his UFC and state side appeal. But if Henderson loses than the UFC knows they have a rising middleweight star in Palhares.

Odds are -200 Dan Henderson and +160 Rousimar Palhares.

Pick: Dan Henderson by TKO