Mike Winkeljohn: ‘Cerrone Beats Henderson This Time, No Doubt About It’

When Donald Cerrone stepped up to fight Benson Henderson Sunday at UFC Fight Night Boston on just 14 days notice, the MMA world went nuts.

Cerrone had just come off of a decision win over Myles Jury less than 48 hours before stepping in for Eddie Alvarez against Henderson, and to top it off, Cerrone had lost to Henderson twice before, once via controversial decision.

His striking coach Mike Winkeljohn believes this time, Cerrone takes home the win, and isn’t too concerned with the short turnaround.

“You know it’s Cowboy, that’s what he does. I love it because Cowboy is a guy that, he’s unconventional, but he’s a fighter at heart. He’ll fight anyone at anytime. He’s also probably one of our most loyal team members. He’s great to have. I wouldn’t want him to do a whole bunch of these in a row because it will break his body down, he will be taking shots, and potentially he could lose a fight for the wrong reasons. But I’m actually excited that he took this fight. I think that he gets Ben [Henderson] this time. There’s no doubt about it.”

Having lost to Henderson twice before, despite the bouts being a long time ago, many are wondering what Cowboy will do different this time.

“Well you know what, his Muay Thai coach Henry will definitely be working on making sure Cowboy is not going to get hit by those big leg kicks that Benson has, and understanding when Benson’s going to try to take you down, and I think they’ll be trying to lift Benson out of what he wants to do. Lift him, get him on his heels a little bit, and push forward. I think pushing forward, Cowboy does it to everybody. They know it’s coming, but I don’t think…..I’m hoping that they don’t have a plan for it. Just Cowboy when he imposes his will and pushes forward is such a tremendous fighter; and honestly, people trying to take him down. Donald’s got some of the best hips in our gym. It’s incredible how his wrestling has gotten soooo much better.”

How do you see the bout playing out?

– via Submission Radio