Cejudo Loses To Yadong In Close UFC Seattle Decision

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Post on Feb 23, 2025

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Cejudo's Reign Ends: Yadong Scores Controversial Split Decision Win in Seattle

Seattle, WA – Henry Cejudo's highly anticipated return to the Octagon ended in stunning defeat Saturday night at UFC Seattle. Facing a surging Song Yadong, Cejudo lost a closely contested split decision, leaving many fans and analysts questioning the judges' scorecards. The fight, a thrilling back-and-forth battle, showcased both fighters' exceptional skills but ultimately saw Yadong emerge victorious, ending Cejudo's hopes of reclaiming UFC gold.

The fight was a whirlwind from the opening bell. Cejudo, known for his wrestling prowess and devastating striking, immediately tested Yadong's takedown defense. Yadong, however, proved surprisingly adept at stuffing Cejudo's attempts, showcasing improved grappling skills that countered Cejudo's famed wrestling game. While Cejudo landed some significant strikes, including powerful leg kicks and crisp combinations, Yadong consistently countered with his own potent striking, utilizing a variety of kicks and punches to keep Cejudo at bay. The fight was punctuated by several explosive exchanges, leaving the crowd roaring with excitement throughout the three rounds.

The judges' scorecards, however, proved controversial. One judge scored the fight 29-28 in favor of Cejudo, while the other two scored it 29-28 for Yadong. This split decision sparked immediate debate among fans and pundits, many of whom felt Cejudo had done enough to win, highlighting his takedown attempts and superior ground control in certain exchanges. Social media erupted with opinions, with many accusing the judges of bias or a lack of understanding of the finer points of mixed martial arts scoring. Cejudo himself expressed his disappointment, though he conceded defeat with characteristic grace, acknowledging Yadong's performance.

The loss marks a significant setback for Cejudo, who had previously retired as a two-division champion. His return was highly anticipated, with many expecting him to quickly recapture UFC gold. Instead, he faces a potential reevaluation of his future in the sport, particularly given his age and the challenges presented by the younger, hungrier generation of fighters. Cejudo's immediate plans remain unclear, although the possibility of a rematch with Yadong or a fight against another top contender in the bantamweight division has been discussed.

Yadong, on the other hand, is poised for a significant jump in the rankings. This victory establishes him as a legitimate contender in the bantamweight division, marking a pivotal moment in his career. His improved grappling and refined striking showcased remarkable growth and improvement, solidifying his place as one of the division's most exciting and dangerous fighters. His future prospects look bright, with a potential title shot within reach following this impressive upset victory.

The UFC Seattle event, which also featured other exciting matchups, will be remembered for this highly contested main event. The controversial decision will undoubtedly fuel further discussions about MMA judging and its impact on the sport. Regardless of the debate, Song Yadong’s victory over Henry Cejudo marks a significant turning point in both fighters' careers and the UFC bantamweight division. The future of both men will be closely followed by fans worldwide.