Finally Final Thoughts: Strikeforce “Feijao vs. Henderson” Edition

For some reason, Strikeforce shows always seem to sneak up on me. That’s a problem I hope to correct soon, because Strikeforce has been off to an awesome 2011 and I think this trend will continue with their upcoming “Feijao vs. Henderson” show. As always, I’ve got plenty to say about any upcoming MMA show, but today it’s time for my final say. So here it is: another entry into my “Finally Final Thoughts” series, this time featuring Strikeforce: “Feijao vs. Henderson”.

I find myself pretty conflicted when it comes to the Tim Kennedy vs. Melvin Manhoef match-up. Part of me definitely wants Manhoef to win, because when he’s “on”, the man is a destroyer and incredibly entertaining. Up until Robbie Lawler KO’d him, Manhoef looked amazing in his Strikeforce debut. I think Strikeforce needs someone like Manhoef in their growing Middleweight division, someone who will always go after it and brings Strikeforce some international appeal. Manhoef may always be a one-trick pony, but I respect him for constantly trying to finish his fights.

But then again, I’ve also got a whole lot of respect for Tim Kennedy, and that’s only partially because of his history as a decorated war veteran. Most of my respect for him has to do with what he’s shown inside the Strikeforce cage: he’s a pretty humble person and also as tough as they come. He came pretty close to beating Ronaldo Souza, and he’s definitely emerged as one of Strikeforce’s premiere Middleweight fighters.

All I hope is that this fight turns out to be as entertaining as I think it will be.

I’m also really looking forward to seeing Marloes Coenen back in action. I’m definitely a converted fan, and I think it’s going to be very interesting to see how Coenen performs now that she’s a champion. She’s got quite a tough battle ahead of her: Liz Carmouche is no joke, and I can see her beating Coenen if presented with an opportunity to do so. This is definitely worthy of co-main event status, and I look forward to seeing the women steal the show once again.

Dan Henderson vs. Rafael Cavalcante is another one of those fights where I really don’t want either man to lose. I really respect Dan Henderson, and part of me feels an outright obligation to support the old-school fighters simply because they’re trying their best to stay relevant in today’s world of rapidly-evolving, ever-changing techniques and styles.

However, Rafael Cavalcante is a very entertaining fighter and I think he has it in him to be a dominating champion. This fight is very, very important for him: it’s going to set the tone for the rest of his championship reign, if he does manage to beat Henderson. Since its inception, the Strikeforce Light Heavyweight division has never had a truly dominant champion, in fact, only one champion has ever successfully defended his championship after winning it. I absolutely believe that Cavalcante possesses the heart, talent and raw potential to turn that tide… all that’s left for him to do is seize the opportunity.

In the end, I’m definitely looking forward to this card. It’s not the greatest Strikeforce card ever, but sometimes the events that don’t feature the absolute best also end up being really solid and entertaining. I have faith in this card and faith in Strikeforce in general, so I feel confident in saying that we’re going to have a fun, free night of fights on our hands.

And that’s that, fans and friends. But what about you? Any last thoughts on “Feijao vs. Henderson”?