Heading into final fight of contract, Henderson loves 'free market system'

Benson Henderson's upcoming bout against Jorge Masvidal is the final fight on his current UFC contract.

A longtime Zuffa employee under both the WEC and UFC banners, the former UFC lightweight kingpin is hoping to continue his relationship with world's biggest MMA promotion - but that doesn't mean he's going to rule out alternate possibilities.

"Democracy is good and capitalism works," Henderson told ESPN's Brett Okamoto. "It's all about having a free market system - not having a monopoly and having another organization to work for. I am a full fan of 'God Bless America' and our free-market society."

Although it's unlikely the UFC would let Henderson bolt to Bellator or World Series of Fighting, "Bendo" could leverage any potential offers into a more lucrative deal with the UFC.

If he wants to maximize his value heading into free agency, Henderson will have to look impressive against Masvidal at UFC Fight Night 79 in Seoul, South Korea on Saturday.