GSP hitting Hendricks (photo via UFC/ ZUFFA)

By FCF Staff

This Saturday, the UFC will crown a new welterweight champion for the first time since 2008, when Johny Hendricks battles Robbie Lawler for the vacant title in Dallas. The reason being, of course, that long time champ Georges St. Pierre vacated the title following his win over Hendricks last year, and it remains to be seen if and when he’ll return to the Octagon.

So who does St. Pierre believe will take the title at UFC 171? Here is some of what the former champ had to say about Hendricks-Lawler in a recent interview with the Canadian Press:

“It’s a fight where anything can happen,” St-Pierre said. “Both guys can put each other to sleep. They have a lot of power in striking, but I believe Hendricks has the edge in this fight because I believe he will come more well-prepared with his team and he’s got an edge in the grappling department.”

Prior to facing GSP, Hendricks had won six straight fights, which included KO wins over Jon Fitch and Martin Kampmann.

Lawler, meanwhile, has locked up a title shot thanks to a three fight win streak, which includes wins over Josh Koscheck, Bobby Voelker and Rory MacDonald.