UFC 181 Live Stream, Schedule, Predictions: Johny Hendricks Expects Fireworks in Rematch With Robbie Lawler
Johny Hendricks will defend his Ultimate Fighting Championship welterweight title in his rematch with Robbie Lawler at UFC 181 on Saturday night in Las Vegas.
Hendricks won the vacant welterweight crown in March, but the 31-year-old had to go through a tough five-round bout with Lawler at UFC 171 -- a fight that is a strong Fight of the Year candidate.
Hendricks, who escaped with a unanimous decision win against Lawler in the first fight, said in an interview that he is prepared for any outcome, pointing out that he is expecting an "all-out war" on Saturday night.
"I've prepared for the worst, and if the best thing happens, then I'll take it," Hendricks told UFC.com. "But I'm preparing that it's gonna be another 25-minute all-out war, and we're gonna throw punches and get hit and that's what I'm ready for. If I go in there thinking anything less, it's dumb."
Lawler echoed Hendricks' statement as he also predicted an action-packed, five-round fight in their rematch. Unlike in their first fight, Lawler said that he is more confident about his chances. But he admitted that he needs to perform well in every round and he should not focus on scoring a knockout against the reigning welterweight champion.
"I need to compete a little more and not always just look for the knockout," Lawler told ESPN. "I like knocking people out. But I need to win, dominate, beat them up and concentrate on winning rounds when I can't get a knockout."
Predictions
Most mixed martial arts analysts are convinced that the Hendricks-Lawler rematch will be a treat to fight fans, as both fighters are expected to go toe-to-toe against each other. Most experts are convinced, however, that Hendricks will likely keep his title via unanimous decision because he knows what to expect from Lawler this time.
Where to Watch, Live Stream, TV Schedule
The UFC 181 early preliminary fights will start at 7 p.m. EST and will be shown live through UFC Fight Pass. Fans can catch all remaining preliminary fights on Fox Sports 1 starting 8 p.m. EST.
The Hendricks-Lawler fight will be available on pay-per-view and online live stream via UFC.TV, including the co-main event fight between UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis and Gilbert Melendez.
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