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The Benson Henderson toothpick situation

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Following Benson Henderson’s UFC on FOX 5 dominating victory over Nate Diaz, UFC Commentator Joe Rogan asked him a question that confused many when he wondered if Henderson fought the fight with a toothpick in his mouth. “Smooth” did not confirm nor deny the toothpick question.

There have been numerous screenshots and videos that have captured the champ with a toothpick in his mouth.

At the post-fight press conference that was a question that came up on numerous occasions and Henderson played coy with the media.

“I normally do, yeah. I have it in practices, when I spar and when I fight. It’s a bad habit, but whatever. I’ve gotten away with it so far.”

Someone then questioned UFC official Dave Sholler whether this was even legal and things took a bit of a turn, as Henderson said smiling, “Don’t get me in trouble, man.”

“For starters, I can’t even tell if he’s serious or joking. But I’m sure the commission wouldn’t want a piece of wood in his mouth during the fight. But he’s ‘Smooth’ for a reason.”

Henderson followed up and said he was just joking about fighting with the toothpick in his mouth.

When a member of the media asked Diaz what he thought about the awkward habit, he responded with, “I don’t know if he did. But that’s weird.” 

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Jeremy Brand is an experienced MMA writer and columnist. He is the founder of MMASucka.com, and has represented the company with media credentials at many mixed martial arts fights. Jeremy is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, training in BC, Canada.

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