Former champion Henry Cejudo is set to seek redemption in the main event at UFC Fight Night 252, where he faces off against rising contender Song Yadong. Cejudo, a seasoned fighter with a professional record of 16 wins and 4 losses (10-4 in the UFC), is looking to put an end to a troubling streak that has seen him taste defeat in his last two bouts. After an intense clash with Aljamain Sterling at UFC 288, which ended in a narrow split decision loss, Cejudo found himself on the back foot. His subsequent bout against current champion Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 298 further highlighted the steep uphill battle Cejudo now faces as he tries to regain his former glory in the octagon.
Cejudo’s earlier career was marked by outstanding successes, including a remarkable six-fight winning streak during which he captured the UFC Flyweight and Bantamweight titles. The sharp decline from champion to contender raises questions about his ability to adapt and rebound, making this upcoming fight not just another event on his calendar but a pivotal moment in his storied career. The stakes are higher than ever for the former two-division champion as he aims to reclaim his spot at the top.
On the opposite side of the octagon, Song Yadong, a formidable fighter with a record of 21 wins, 8 losses, and 1 draw (10-3-1 in the UFC), is eager to solidify his position in the division. After experiencing a decision loss to former champion Petr Yan at UFC 299, Yadong looks to bounce back and maintain his trajectory toward title contention. Recent victories against notable opponents such as Ricky Simon and Chris Gutierrez have showcased his skill and determination, making him a fierce competitor in this main event.
As Yadong prepares to face one of the most skilled and experienced fighters in Cejudo, he must manage the challenge of stepping into the spotlight against someone who has faced the very best. The pressure will be on Yadong to not only win but to also make a statement that he belongs among the elite fighters in the bantamweight division. The betting odds appear to favor him slightly, with Yadong being listed as a -230 favorite compared to Cejudo’s +190 status as the underdog, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup.
The backdrop for this exciting encounter will be the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, where fans will gather to witness a critical moment in both fighters’ careers. Scheduled for February 22, 2025, this event is anticipated to generate significant buzz not only because of the lightweight title implications but also due to the contrasting trajectories of these fighters. As Cejudo stitches up his confidence and refines his strategy, Yadong will aim to capitalize on any signs of vulnerability from the veteran.
UFC Fight Night 252 promises to be a thrilling showdown that not only pits two exceptional fighters against one another but also presents a narrative of redemption for Cejudo and the emergence of Yadong as a potential title challenger. Fans are in for a treat as they witness two fighters at the crossroads of their careers, each seeking victory for vastly different reasons. Ultimately, who will prevail in this high-stakes encounter? Only time will tell.