With Chad Mendes out, Aljamain Sterling steps in to face Benson Henderson at RAF 6

MMA Fighting

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

**Aljamain Sterling Steps In for Chad Mendes in a High-Stakes UFC Bout at RAF 6** The UFC's Return to Fight (RAF) 6 event has seen an unexpected change with former champion Chad Mendes withdrawing due to an undisclosed injury. As a result, Aljamain Sterling will now face Benson Henderson in a 170-pound matchup, marking a significant moment for both fighters. This last-minute adjustment adds intrigue to the card, which is set to take place at Mullett Arena in Tempe, Arizona, and stream on FOX Nation. Sterling, a former UFC bantamweight champion, has been actively competing since shifting up to 170 pounds. His most recent outing was a dominant victory over two-time featherweight title challenger Brian Ortega at UFC Shanghai in August 2025. However, Sterling's transition to the higher weight class has seen mixed results, with wins against Calvin Kattar and a loss to Movsar Evloev highlighting his competitive yet inconsistent trajectory. Henderson, a former lightweight champion, is also making waves beyond MMA, exploring boxing, karate, and grappling. This fight marks his debut in the RAF series, adding a unique dynamic to the event. Known for his versatility and experience, Henderson brings a fresh challenge to Sterling's return to action. This high-profile clash between two decorated fighters promises to be a highlight of RAF 6. The event is further bolstered by its main attraction: a rematch between former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo and WEC legend Urijah Faber. This stacked lineup underscores the growing appeal of the Return to Fight series, offering fans a blend of MMA and alternative combat sports. For sports enthusiasts and MMA followers, this event is a must-watch. The unexpected substitution of Mendes with Sterling not only keeps the action thrilling but also spotlights the adaptability and resilience required in mixed martial arts. With both fighters bringing their own unique strengths and experiences to the cage,

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Originally published on MMA Fighting on 2/23/2026