• TUF 17

Henderson doesn't blame Chael, angry at UFC

ESPN staff
October 18, 2012
Dan Henderson puts fighting first © Getty Images
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Dan Henderson has clarified that he has nothing against Chael Sonnen following the UFC's decision to pair the middleweight in a TUF 17 rivalry with Jon Jones.

Henderson was widely expected to get the next light-heavyweight title crack at Jones, having been forced to pull out of their first bout due to injury. However, he has been overlooked for the more charismatic Sonnen for the reality series, which ends with Sonnen and Jones fighting.

His response on Wednesday was to question what exactly the UFC looks for in a No. 1 contender, saying: "I guess I should just quit training to win fights and to be exciting for the fans and just go to s***-talking school."

It was a surprising outburst from Hendo, who is a long-time friend and training partner of Sonnen.

However, he has now clarified that he holds nothing against his friend, merely stating that the UFC needs to treat MMA as a professional sport.

"Just to make it clear," Henderson tweeted. "I will always have love for Chael and don't blame him for saying yes to a big opportunity. But giving him that fight right now degrades the sport of MMA."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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