MF & DAZN X Series 18: Chris Avila vs. Benson Henderson: Live round-by-round updates
Chris Avila looks to continue his reign of terror in the crossover boxing scene by taking out fellow MMA fighter Benson Henderson.
In 2021, Avila decided he wanted a change after establishing an 8-9 MMA record. The Stockton native transitioned to boxing and started with a majority win against Anthony Taylor. Since then, the Nate Diaz affiliate has racked up wins against 'Doctor Mike', Paul Bamba, Jeremy Stephens, Jake Bostwick, and Anthony Pettis.
At MF & DAZN X Series 18, Avila plans to strengthen his presence in the crossover boxing scene by making a statement in the one-night 175-pound Stake Pro Tournament. The 31-year-old's semifinal opponent is Benson Henderson.
In early 2023, Henderson suffered a first-round submission loss against Usman Nurmagomedov and decided to retire from MMA. The former UFC lightweight champion has since competed in a grappling match against Neiman Gracie and a karate fight against Anthony Pettis, losing both.
The next chapter of Henderson's combat sports journey has led him to Misfits Boxing. With a win against Avila, 'Smooth' would face the winner of Idris Virgo vs. Fes Batista in the Stake Pro Tournament championship.
Follow along with Sportskeeda for live updates of the 175-pound semifinal matchup between Chris Avila and Benson Henderson.
The Misfits Boxing 18 event will kick off on Sept. 14 at 11 A.M. PT/ 2 P.M. ET/ 7 P.M. BST with the main event walkouts scheduled for approx. 2:30 P.M. PT/ 5:30 P.M. ET/ 10:30 P.M. BST.
MF & DAZN X Series 18: Chris Avila vs. Benson Henderson
Round 1
Chris Avila vs. Benson Henderson is underway. Avila is already pushing Henderson back. Henderson uses his footwork to ensure he doesn't get trapped against the ropes. Henderson is throwing big punches to start the fight and has found a home for some of his early attacks.
Avila is looking to find his range, while Henderson is exploding forward and landing his left hand. Avila pushes forward to the body and clinches with Henderson. Henderson's power is winning this round compared to Avila's volume.
Avila goes down to the body and comes over the top with a good combination. Henderson temporarily has Avila against the ropes and attempts to capitalize. They end Round 1 with a back-and-forth exchange. Close round.
Round 2
Henderson is increasing his volume of body punches. Avila returns the favor. Avila attempted to push Henderson against the ropes. Henderson reverses the position and capitalizes on the short-distance attack. Henderson comes over the top with his left hand, he's looking sharp halfway through Round 2.
Henderson unloads a barrage of punches on Avila. Avila isn't fazed by the attack, but Henderson looked good for the judges there. Henderson's body punches are starting to make a difference in this fight. Henderson lands a solid short left hand.
Avila hasn't found a rhythm through two rounds. Henderson continues pushing forward, making the fight dirty when needed and landing at distance in between.
Round 3
Henderson starts Round 3 with a big left hand. Henderson's close-distance punches are preventing Avila from finding success on the inside. Henderson is changing level and somewhat overwhelming Avila.
Henderson and Avila exchange body punches before clinching. Henderson isn't giving Avila any room to breathe. Henderson continues to find a home for the left hand. Avila needs to make a change, this fight isn't going his way.
Avila visibly looks more tired. Henderson is making this fight ugly and not giving the judges a reason to score these rounds for Avila. Henderson's short-range punches have been the biggest difference-maker thus far.
Round 4
Avila comes out slightly more aggressive. Henderson quickly shuts down his momentum with forward pressure and accurate punches from his backhand. Henderson utilizes the clinch again to prevent Avila from landing anything significant on the inside.
Henderson is pushing Avila around, forcing him to fight his way. Henderson unloads several body punches. Avila is landing at times but the power isn't there to make a difference on the judges' scorecards.
Henderson's footwork and aggression continue to give Avila trouble. Round 4 is coming to an end and Avila needs a knockout to win.
Round 5
Avila seems aware that he's down on the scorecards. It hasn't made a difference, as Henderson continues to make the fight dirty and find the most success. Avila is running out of time, he goes down to the body. Henderson pushes Avila back against the rope and unloads three or four more body punches.
Avila's lack of power means this fight is likely over. Avila misses on a big right hand, Henderson counters and finds the target. Avila takes a deep breath with one minute left. Henderson lands a clean straight left hand. We're going to the judges' scorecards and Henderson will have his hand raised.
Official Result: Benson Henderson def. Chris Avila by unanimous decision (49-46 x2 and 48-47).