In the fast-evolving world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), the anticipation surrounding future matchups often ignites passionate debates among fighters and fans alike. Recently, a noteworthy discussion emerged between two notable fighters—Henry Cejudo and Kamaru Usman—regarding the potential biggest UFC fights of 2025. At the core of their disagreement lies the heavyweight title unification bout between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall versus the featherweight challenge posed by Ilia Topuria against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
Usman’s perspective stems from the high-stakes allure of Jon Jones. With an impressive record of 28 wins and only 1 loss, Jones is a legend in the sport, primarily due to his unprecedented track record and undefeated streak (if you exclude the disqualifications). Usman’s argument posits that a clash featuring a non-defeated fighter like Jones holds an intrinsic draw that cannot simply be matched by other weight classes. According to Usman, this fight embodies not just a title unification but an opportunity to witness history, igniting more curiosity and excitement among fans.
Cejudo’s Enthusiasm for Championships and Legacy
In stark contrast, Cejudo’s enthusiasm leans towards the rising star Ilia Topuria and his goal of becoming a dual-champion. Topuria’s pristine record of 16-0 adds to the intrigue, as he possesses the potential to not only dethrone Makhachev but also to scale the heights achieved by fellow featherweights. Cejudo argues that the competitive nature of Makhachev vs. Topuria contributes to a greater narrative, where the stakes of greatness are amplified by Topuria’s quest for dual-champ status. For Cejudo, Topuria isn’t just fighting for a title; he’s on a path to redefine legacy by defeating two of the sport’s best fighters, including former pound-for-pound king Alexander Volkanovski alongside current champ Makhachev.
Cejudo’s assertion champions the idea that fans are drawn to multifaceted narratives, such as a fighter’s journey to greatness rather than merely watching a high-profile name compete. He remarks on the significance of Topuria’s potential to elevate himself within the sport’s hierarchy while stating that the implications of his victory against two reigning champions are far more exhilarating than a “simple” heavyweight title fight.
The Role of Promoters and Fighters in Shaping the Future
The contrasting views from Cejudo and Usman further underscore the role that promoters, such as UFC CEO Dana White, play in shaping public perception and match scheduling. White’s commitment to organizing the Jones vs. Aspinall matchup signifies the draw that heavyweight bouts have. However, the refusal from Makhachev to face Topuria, suggesting that he won’t defend his title against a featherweight, adds another layer of complexity to forthcoming events.
As the UFC landscape evolves, fans remain hopeful for intriguing matchups that symbolize not only championship belts but the very fabric of competitive integrity. The debate between Usman and Cejudo illustrates an important aspect of combat sports: the diverse opinions surrounding what makes a fight significant attract audiences, ensuring that the discourse around MMA remains as lively as the fights themselves.