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Henderson favourite to face Jon Jones next

ESPN staff
January 8, 2012
Dan Henderson fired his way into UFC light-heavyweight title contention with victory over Mauricio Shogun Rua © Getty Images
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The UFC appears to be lining up Dan Henderson as Jon Jones' next opponent, after the light-heavyweight champion confessed he wants a rapid return to the Octagon.

Jones had been planning a five-month break from the sport, having fought four times in 2011. However, he revealed a change of heart to ESPN, and now wants another four bouts in 2012.

The 205lb champion has now informed president Dana White of his plans, and White has responded by hinting Henderson will be his opponent. The move would make sense, with Henderson still riding the momentum of his epic win over Mauricio Shogun Rua.

"He had said he wanted to take some time off [but] he called about four days ago and said, 'OK, let's go. ... Let's get back to work. I'm ready to get productive again,'" White said on ESPN 1100. "He wants to fight as soon as possible.

"We've got to see how this thing plays out but what could end up happening is Dan Henderson fights Jon Jones first," White speculated.

The alternative option would be to wait for the outcome of Rashad Evans' fight with Phil Davis on January 28. Evans and Jones have twice missed each other in the past due to injury.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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