The Professional Fighters League has confirmed a major bout for its event in Belgium.
Benson Henderson will take on Patrick Habirora in the main event of PFL Brussels. The card takes place on May 23 at ING Arena. The contest is set for 170 pounds.
This fight brings together a former world champion and one of the top young names on the European scene.
Henderson Steps Back Into the Cage
Henderson once held the UFC lightweight title and spent years competing against elite fighters. His last mixed martial arts appearance came in March 2023 at Bellator 292. On that night, he was submitted in the opening round by Usman Nurmagomedov.
Since that bout, Henderson has stayed active in other sports. He has entered grappling events, boxing matches, and Karate Combat contests. Most recently, he faced Aljamain Sterling at Real American Freestyle 6 and lost by technical fall.
Now he returns to MMA competition for the first time in over a year.
Habirora Looks to Shine at Home
Habirora enters the matchup with a perfect record of eight wins and no losses. Nearly all of those victories have ended by knockout or technical knockout, showing his ability to finish fights early.
In 2025, he earned two first round knockout wins in PFL competition. Those victories came against former UFC fighters Danny Roberts and Kevin Jousset.
Competing in Brussels gives Habirora the chance to perform in front of a home crowd. A win over a former UFC champion would mark the biggest moment of his career.
❗️BRUSSELS GET READY!
Belgium’s own @5klabastoss faces MMA Legend @BensonHenderson in the Main Event of #PFLBrussels
Be there for Saturday, May 23rd!
️ https://t.co/39SuOziHlt
Pre-Sale: Tuesday, March 3rd at 12PM CET
General Sale:… pic.twitter.com/ec0vfXaG4U
— PFL (@PFLMMA) March 2, 2026
The matchup offers a clear contrast in styles and career stages. Henderson brings years of championship level experience. Habirora brings speed, confidence, and momentum.
The fight will take place at welterweight, adding another layer to the challenge for both athletes.
On May 23, fans in Belgium will watch a rising local prospect test himself against a veteran who has already reached the top of the sport.
Published on March 3, 2026 at 10:01 am
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