The marquee matchup for Bellator 183: Henderson vs. Pitbull saw Patricky Freire and Benson Henderson go the distance. When the dust settled, it was Pitbull who earned the split decision victory, and called out Bellator’s lightweight champion Brent Primus in his in-cage interview.
Patricky Freire def. Benson Henderson by Split Decision (29-28 x2, 28-29): Lightweight
Bendo came out as the bully, just as he did when he fought Patricio Freire, but was quickly backed off by the counter punching Patricky Pitbull. Pitbull started pressuring forward, throwing heavy punches when the moments presented themselves, as Bendo looked to counter with his evasive footwork and kicks.
Just when it looked like the second frame would be another standup round, Bendo shot in and pressed Pitbull up against the fence. Henderson tirelessly worked for the takedown, but Pitbull defended rather well, even launching a jump knee in the process. Pitbull scored with some Travis Browne elbows as Bendo continued to work for the takedown. The lightweights returned to their striking in the third round, with Bendo landing several body kicks, and Pitbull scoring with his left hook. Henderson shot in and again pressed Pitbull up against the fence, but still struggled to get the takedown. Pitbull eventually found open space, and stalked Henderson for the remainder of the round.