Henderson 'ready mentally to retire' after next fight

After 46 professional MMA contests, Dan Henderson is ready to lay down his gloves for good.

In an interview with SevereMMA.com on Sunday, the 45-year-old former multiple-division champion responded in the affirmative when asked if his presumptive title fight with middleweight champion Michael Bisping will be his last.

"That is my plan, win or lose I'm ready mentally to retire," said Henderson.

"My body could still probably go another two, three years more. I've put it through enough. I'm ready to take it a little bit easier, but still be involved in MMA doing something a little bit different than fighting."

The UFC has not confirmed the Bisping-Henderson bout, but president Dana White has stated that it is in the works and Henderson said that the bout could take place at UFC 204 in Manchester, England.

The No. 13-ranked Henderson shrugged off criticisms that he was unworthy of a title shot, citing an outpouring of fan interest after his and Bisping's most recent wins and the personal animosity between the two fighters.

Bisping and Henderson previously fought at UFC 200 in July 2009, an unforgettable knockout win for Henderson.

In his 19-year MMA career, Henderson has won championships with several major promotions and he also claimed victory in a UFC tournament in 1998. If the fight with Bisping becomes official, it will be his third crack at a UFC title and a rare opportunity for a combat sports athlete to go out on top.