Henry Cejudo's UFC Return Ends In Decision Loss To Song Yadong

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Post on Feb 23, 2025

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Cejudo's Comeback Crumbles: Decision Loss to Yadong Ends Title Hopes

Las Vegas, NV – Henry Cejudo's highly anticipated return to the Octagon ended in disappointment Saturday night at UFC 288, as the former two-division champion suffered a unanimous decision loss to Song Yadong. The fight, hyped as a potential title eliminator at bantamweight, saw Cejudo unable to overcome Yadong's persistent pressure and superior striking throughout the five-round contest. The judges' scorecards reflected the fight's narrative, all awarding the victory to Yadong with scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46.

Cejudo, known for his explosive wrestling and counter-punching, appeared rusty in his first fight in over three years. While he displayed moments of brilliance, landing several impactful strikes, he struggled to consistently implement his wrestling game, a cornerstone of his previous successes. Yadong, meanwhile, displayed a marked improvement in his striking accuracy and power, consistently connecting with clean shots that visibly affected Cejudo throughout the fight. The Chinese fighter's relentless pressure and superior cardio proved decisive in the later rounds, overwhelming Cejudo's attempts to regain control.

The fight opened with a cautious feeling-out process, both fighters circling and probing for openings. However, Yadong quickly established the rhythm, utilizing a potent jab and effective leg kicks to maintain distance while sporadically unleashing combinations. Cejudo’s attempts at takedowns were met with staunch defense, and his counter-punching opportunities were fewer than expected. As the fight progressed into the later rounds, Yadong's stamina became a clear advantage, allowing him to maintain a high output while Cejudo visibly tired.

The loss marks a significant setback for Cejudo's aspirations of reclaiming UFC gold. His retirement announcement in 2020, following a victory over Dominick Cruz, had left many wondering if he would ever return to competitive fighting. While his comeback fight generated considerable buzz, the result leaves his future uncertain. Post-fight, Cejudo was gracious in defeat, acknowledging Yadong's performance. He hinted at the possibility of another fight, stating his desire to continue his career. However, his immediate future plans remain unclear, requiring careful consideration given his age and the demands of high-level competition.

For Yadong, the victory represents a monumental step forward in his career. The win against a former champion significantly elevates his profile within the bantamweight division. He now firmly positions himself as a serious contender for a future title shot, showcasing remarkable growth in his striking technique and fighting IQ. His performance underscored his potential to become a dominant force in the UFC's stacked 135-pound weight class.

The crowd at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, witnessed a thrilling contest, even if the outcome didn't align with the pre-fight predictions of many. The energy was palpable throughout the event, reflecting the significant anticipation surrounding Cejudo's long-awaited return. The fight's result, however, serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts, and the constant evolution needed to remain at the top of the sport. The loss will undoubtedly fuel debate and analysis amongst fight fans and experts alike, sparking discussion regarding Cejudo's future and Yadong's ascent within the UFC bantamweight division. The question now is not just whether Cejudo will fight again, but also if he can rediscover the form that made him a two-division champion.