As UFC Fight Night 252 approaches, all eyes are on Henry Cejudo, a fighter who has stood at the pinnacle of the sport yet finds himself in a challenging position. With a record of 16 wins and 4 losses, Cejudo, a former champion in two divisions, faces a compelling challenge against a spirited contender, Song Yadong, who boasts a record of 21 wins, 8 losses, and 1 draw. This clash marks an unusual main event, as both fighters enter the arena coming off recent defeats. Yet, Cejudo embraces his status as the underdog, bringing a wealth of experience into the octagon.
At 38 years of age, Cejudo recognizes the age difference as he prepares to face the younger Yadong, who is just 27. In their pre-fight discussions, Cejudo has expressed a mixture of respect and strategy regarding his opponent’s explosiveness and countering abilities. “He’s capable of finishing a fight with a single strike,” Cejudo remarked. However, he also pointed out the potential flaw in Yadong’s gas tank, suggesting that his high-octane style might lead to fatigue in a prolonged bout. This perspective highlights Cejudo’s analytical approach—using his seasoned experience to capitalize on the younger fighter’s possible vulnerabilities.
Cejudo’s trek back into the octagon has not been smooth sailing. After an unexpected retirement following his championship reign in May 2020, he returned to competition only to face formidable opponents: Aljamain Sterling and Merab Dvalishvili. The losses were close calls, yet they indicated the fierce level of competition he now faces in a sport that is ever-evolving. Despite these setbacks, Cejudo remains steadfast in his belief that he can still contend for a title in the future, hinting at a potential return to flyweight—a weight class he has previously showcased his prowess in.
What sets Cejudo apart is his psychological resilience; he thrives in the underdog role. “There’s a chip on my shoulder,” he stated, embodying the spirit of a fighter who has been around long enough to understand his craft deeply. This underdog mentality has fueled many fighters throughout history, often pushing them to achieve the unthinkable. Cejudo’s willingness to embrace this role serves as a motivating factor, not only for him but also for fans and aspiring fighters alike.
While Cejudo aims to regain his footing against Yadong, he also articulates a larger vision for the flyweight division. Cejudo believes that a victory against Yadong would create a buzz, potentially reigniting interest in a weight class he has previously saved from stagnation. His ambition to reclaim influence in the division could position him as a critical player, creating compelling matchups that would draw audiences and competitors alike.
In essence, Henry Cejudo’s journey into UFC Fight Night 252 is marked by adversity and resilience. The fight against Song Yadong may not just define his immediate future but could also shape his legacy in a sport that celebrates those who rise in moments of difficulty. Whether he can harness his experience, embrace his underdog status, and come out victorious remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Cejudo’s story is far from over.