Dan Henderson is not only the modern day equivalent to the Running Man, he’s also as tough as any human being on the face of earth. This man can take a trouncing like no other, and often manages to rebound and snag impressive victories. Given his low-key demeanor, and I’d-share-a-beer-with-you-anytime attitude, Dan has painted himself as one of the coolest men competing in mixed martial arts today.

Dan Henderson’s Career

This year offered an assortment of spectacular fights. Many a men engaged in highly memorable duels, and while fights like Frankie Edgar versus Gray Maynard III, Nick Diaz versus Paul Daley, and Jose Aldo versus Mark Hominick are certainly worthy of such recognition, one fight took place this year that stands head and shoulders above the rest of the pack.

At UFC 139 two longtime veterans met for the first time, despite traveling similar career courses for years: Dan “Hendo” Henderson and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua. These two engaged in a war to be remembered. For five full rounds, both men utilized every tool in their repertoire, which led to a frenetic bout that saw plenty of action on the feet, as well as some solid ground work.

2011 proved a few very interesting things: veteran fighters with countless years of experience are still capable of evolving and remaining relevant, and the new breed of uber athletic fighters are every bit as frightening as their physique’s and potential ceilings would indicate. From the rejuvenation of Dan Henderson, to the otherworldly resilience of Frankie Edgar to the mesmerizing performances offered forth from Jon Jones, it’s been a great year for mixed martial arts, and these three particular men not only turned heads, but turned in remarkable years that command acknowledgement.

Nick Diaz

By Jillian Bullock

World famous martial artist Brue Lee created Jeet Kune Do, which means “Way of the Intercepting Fist,” and he believed that only what worked for you should be used in martial arts and the rest discarded. Mixed martial arts can actually be compared to Jeet Kwon Do, which is a hybrid fighting system or fighting styles and theories from several different martial arts.

It was reported by MMAfighting.com that a Dan Henderson vs. Rafael Cavalcante fight for the Strikeforce Light Heavyweight title is being planned for March.  Henderson would be making just his second appearance in the division if the fight happens.  It’s understandable why Henderson is getting the title shot considering who else is in that weight class for Strikeforce.  In a division that is home to Abongo Humphrey, Muhammed Lawal, Gegard Mousasi & Trevor Prangley, (all former Strikeforce champions except for Humphrey) it’s an easier sell to the fans with Henderson.

Henderson has gone 4 – 1 over his last five fights

Not to be outdone, Strikeforce hosted an action filled card that was featured live on Pay per View. Henderson versus Babalu 2 was a night filled with fighters swinging for the fences and teeth rattling knockouts.