Henderson-Diaz headline UFC on Fox 5

The USA Today reports that the UFC is planning to have Benson Henderson defend his lightweight title against Nate Diaz on December 8th at UFC on Fox 5.  In addition, it appears that BJ Penn will return against Rory MacDonald and Shogun Rua will take on Alexsander Gustafsson.

At this point, only early season college and NBA pro basketball and the Army-Navy game would oppose this card on December 8th.  Thus, this card has the potential for many fringe viewers to take a look at the UFC.

Although no location has been set the speculation is that Seattle’s Key Arena will be the location of the event.  In a press conference earlier this year, Dana White indicated Seattle was on the list of places it would go in 2012 but did not give specifics.  With every other date spoken for except UFC on Fox 5, Seattle seems like the location.  It would make sense considering Benson Henderson grew up in Federal Way, Washington – just 30 minutes outside of Seattle.

Payout Perspective:

If you have been waiting for a good card, this is one of the better ones just from the announcement of the 3 fights.  As everyone is thinking in their head, let’s hope everyone remains healthy.

But from the business perspective, it appears that the UFC wants to make sure the network gets a great card as it closes out the first year of its business relationship.  The backdrop of what should be a sold out arena and having a hometown champion make a defense against one of the hottest fighters in the division should lend to the spectacle of the event.

Not to mention the return of the legendary BJ Penn.  Also, the Rua-Gustafsson adds some flavor to the early part of the main card.  Folks that saw UFC on Fox 4 should remember Rua and viewers will be introduced to the young up and coming light heavyweight.

Does this card hurt its PPV cards, notably its end of the year card?  Maybe.  However, I think there must be a good faith showing to Fox that the UFC can deliver a good number for the network.  The card should also should shed some light on the question of whether the lighter weight divisions can carry a show.  Yes, you do have light heavyweights in the co-main event, but 2 of the top 3 cards are lightweights.

From another perspective, the strength of this card could help future viewership of PPV cards which is the intended Zuffa strategy.  Strong free tv cards will have fans wanting more and purchasing its PPV.  Right now, that hasn’t happened.  As MMA Supremacy points out, another reason for this card is to strengthen ratings so the product becomes attractive to potential sponsors and alleviates the concerns of current ones.

By the way, If you think I’m advocating for Seattle to get this card, you are right.  Location aside, the card looks great on paper…now let’s hope no one gets hurt.