Hendricks

By FCF Staff

Johny Hendricks says a new version of “Bigg Rigg” will face Stephen Thompson at UFC Fight Night 82 tomorrow, and as a result, don’t expect a five round, main event.

Hendricks will be competing for the first time since last March, when he decisioned fellow welterweight contender Matt Brown. The former champ was scheduled to face Tyron Woodley last October, but a disastrous weight-cut sent Hendricks to the hospital and the fight was cancelled.

Leading into UFC FN 82, Hendricks (17-3) has implemented a new workout regiment and has reported his weight’s on point. Recently, while appearing on “UFC Tonight“, the decorated wrestler had this to say about tomorrow’s bout (quote via FOX Sports press release):

“I don’t want to take it to a decision. I promise you, it’s not going to a decision. My power is back. My cardio is awesome. My strength is there. It’s a new Johny. On Saturday, everyone is going to see what a new Johny can do.”

“I feel great. I did a slow cut. I woke up three pounds over today and I’m still training like I’d be at home.”

Hendricks is 3-2 in his last 5 fights. Thompson (11-1), meanwhile, is coming off a KO win over Jake Ellenberger last July and has won five in a row.

UFC FN 82 will be hosted by the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.