Everyone knows Benson “Smooth” Henderson the fighter, but equally as impressive is the confident but humble human being who puts God, family, his profession and those he cares about above all. Benson is also passionate about helping those in need. Residing in Arizona, Mr. Henderson routinely supports Arizona foster care charities including www.adoptuskids.org.
The Guy Review: First off, all of us here at the Guy Review are huge fans. Your fights against Frankie Edgar, Gilbert Melendez and Nate Diaz are some of my favorites of all time. Do you have a favorite fight that sticks out as most memorable?
Benson: Not really. It’s usually the last fight sticks out the most. With that being said my favorite was the Gilbert Melendez fight. That was the night I proposed to my wife. I’m usually a pretty private person so being able to share that moment with everyone on national television was special.
The Guy Review: How did you get into competing in mixed martial arts? You were a nationally recognized wrestler and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champion before your rise within the WEC, UFC and currently Bellator correct?
Yes I was a wrestling All-American and competed at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championships and currently signed with Bellator.
The Guy Review: Wow, did you win?
Benson: Yup
The Guy Review: Not only do you compete at the highest level, but over the years you have been extremely successful. Can you explain the passion, dedication and discipline it takes to become a champion?
The Guy Review: Who’s your favorite fighter of all time?
Benson: I don’t really have one particular favorite fighter, but growing up if BJ Penn, Matt Hughes or Yves Edwards were fighting I had to watch it. They are definitely pioneers of the sport and opened doors for people like me get the opportunities I’ve been blessed with.
The Guy Review: Is it true you don’t drink or have ever smoked a cigarette or weed?
Benson: Yes, that is true. I made a decision when I was younger that I wouldn’t give in. Well does this count? Freshman year of college, someone offered me Dip. I put a big chunk of it under my bottom lip and ended up dry heaving and getting sick.
The Guy Review: That’s funny and not funny at the same time. Did you armbar your friend at least?
Benson: LOL Hmmmmmmm
The Guy Review: Wow, that must have been difficult. How have you managed to stay the course all these years?
Benson: Peer pressure never phased me. I think after high school the urge to smoke, drink, etc. and how people perceived it changes. In my 20’s when I told people I didn’t drink or smoke it wasn’t that big a deal and I’ve never been one to follow the crowd anyway.
The Guy Review: Let’s talk about something the ladies want to hear. How has life changed since you’ve been a father?
The Guy Review: Can you see some of the characteristics your boys take after you? Do you think either of them will take up martial arts?
Benson: I’ve actually never noticed. It’s my wife that usually points it out to me. They might take up martial arts, they might not. Either way I won’t force them. It’s up to them to forge their own path. All I can do is guide and mentor them with any dreams and goals they have. Now, when they get old enough I’ll tell them what’s it like if they want to know including the highs and lows.
The Guy Review: Hahaha could you imagine actually rolling with one or both of your sons? Would you take it easy on them?
Benson: No Way. Haha. I’m one of the most competitive people I know. I don’t care if it’s a championship fight or we’re playing tic tac toe. I’m there to win. You should see me play Monopoly. I can get down and bankrupt folks at Monopoly. Hahaha.
The Guy Review: What are some gentlemen tips or relationship advice you’ll hand down to your boys that you learned from your marriage?
The Guy Review: Ah I see. A part of what I’m hearing is “Son, no chicken heads”. Haha
Benson: A lot more to it, but yeah something like that. LOL
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The Guy Review: What advice can you give anyone who chooses to follow their passions and dreams as you have?
The Guy Review: Any last words for your fans?
Benson: Thank you for all of your support. I’ve definitely had my share of MMA highs and lows. While the lows are sometimes tough to deal with, the words of encouragement and support from all of you has helped me continue my career.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with us Benson. We wish you all the best with all of your endeavors.
For more information on helping foster kids in Arizona:
More info on “Smooth” available at www.smoothbensonhenderson.com
Benson Henderson is the definition of a modern-day renaissance man, mentor and role model. How many people out there double majored in college, became a wrestling all American, Jiu-Jitsu champion, WEC and UFC lightweight champion along with the roles of devoted husband and father? It’s up to our and future generations to lead and emulate people like Benson as an example of what a man can do with passion and drive.
-The Guy Review-
Fun Facts:
– Benson has two bachelor’s degrees; criminal justice and sociology.
– “Smooth” has two bronze medals; earned at the 2011 and 2014 World Jiu-Jitsu Championship’s.
– Amateur Wrestling All- American
– WEC lightweight Champion
– UFC lightweight Champion
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