The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to make a triumphant return to Seattle with UFC Fight Night 252 host to an exciting lineup of fighters. The event, taking place at Climate Pledge Arena, marks the organization’s first visit to the city in nearly 12 years. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+, with an 11-bout card showcasing some of the most elite fighters in the sport today. This article delves into the key fights, background details, and notable records of the featured fighters, highlighting what makes UFC Fight Night 252 one to watch.
One of the most anticipated matchups of the night is the clash between former two-division champion Henry Cejudo and rising star Song Yadong. Cejudo, with a formidable record of 16 wins and 4 losses, is looking to make a comeback after suffering two consecutive losses. Notably, Cejudo stands out in UFC history as one of the few fighters to hold championship titles in two different weight classes, joining the ranks of legends like Conor McGregor and Amanda Nunes. Cejudo’s blend of wrestling prowess—he is an Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling—and striking strategies has made him a significant player in the bantamweight division.
On the other hand, Song Yadong is stepping into the spotlight as he competes in his fourth UFC headliner. Yadong boasts an impressive record of 21 wins with only 8 losses and 1 draw. Having previously participated in main events, he carries valuable experience that could potentially tip the scales in his favor against the seasoned veteran Cejudo. With Cejudo attempting to avoid a third straight loss and reclaim his position among the top bantamweights, this matchup promises to be thrilling.
Another significant bout on the card features Brendan Allen facing Anthony Hernandez, both of whom have demonstrated their grappling prowess within the Octagon. Allen, holding a record of 24-6, has achieved 18 of his victories by stoppage, emphasizing his finishing capabilities. In particular, his six submission victories in the UFC’s middleweight division rank him second only to Gerald Meerschaert, showcasing Allen’s skill in grappling and submission holds. Hernández, with a record of 13 wins and 2 losses, stands out due to his striking accuracy, landing 62.9% of his significant strikes—an impressive feat within middleweight competition.
Hernandez’s exceptional performance at UFC Fight Night 245, where he set several records, including the single-fight counts for significant strikes landed and takedowns, proves he is a formidable opponent. This matchup features contrasting styles and the potential for explosive exchanges, making it essential viewing for fight fans.
In the bantamweight division, Rob Font is looking to rebound from a rocky patch in his career. After garnering a record of 2-4 in his last six fights, Font remains a significant threat with seven stoppage victories in UFC bantamweight competition. His past performance against “Chito” Vera, where he set the record for most significant strikes landed in a single bantamweight bout, speaks to his potential explosiveness.
Ion Cutelaba, on the other hand, has faced inconsistencies, showing a record of 3-6-1 in his last ten fights. Despite his challenges, he has proven to be an adept grappler with a commendable takedown completion rate. Both athletes have everything to prove in this matchup, making it an intriguing component of the evening’s lineup.
The card also highlights several emerging talents who have shown promise early in their UFC careers. Ibo Aslan, with an undefeated record of 14-1, has a penchant for finishing fights, having secured knockouts in all his career victories thus far. Similarly, Jean Silva, boasting a record of 14-2, has finished 13 of his fights by knockout, making him a fighter to watch. Both competitors represent the exciting new wave of fighters making their marks in the UFC, aiming to showcase their skills on this significant stage.
UFC Fight Night 252 is shaping up to be a pivotal event in both the careers of its headliners and the journey of the next generation of fighters. With key matchups that showcase established veterans as well as emerging stars, Seattle fans are in for an unforgettable night filled with high-stakes drama. As the fighters prepare to leave everything inside the Octagon, all eyes will be on them as they fight for glory, redemption, and future opportunities in one of the most prestigious organizations in mixed martial arts.