Henry Cejudo faces what may be his final chance at UFC glory tonight as he headlines UFC Fight Night 252 against China’s Song Yadong. At 38 years old, the two-division champion returns to action just one day after his birthday in a high-stakes bantamweight clash that could determine his future in MMA’s elite tier.
The Crossroads of a Combat Sports Icon
Cejudo (16-4) enters this bout following back-to-back losses against current champion Aljamain Sterling in May 2023 and top contender Merab Dvalishvili in February 2024 . Despite showing flashes of his championship form, critics argue Father Time may finally be catching up with “Triple C” – a nickname earned through his unprecedented Olympic wrestling gold medal and simultaneous UFC titles in two weight classes.
Yadong’s Youth vs Cejudo’s Experience
Standing across the octagon will be 27-year-old Song Yadong (21-7-1), ranked #5 in UFC’s bantamweight division. The Chinese striker represents a new generation of fighters blending technical striking with improved grappling – a style that could test Cejudo’s legendary wrestling pedigree .
| Fighter | Age | Height | Reach | Last 5 Fights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Henry Cejudo | 38 | 5’4″ | 64″ | 2-3 (L-L-W-W-L) |
| Song Yadong | 27 | 5’8″ | 67″ | 4-1 (W-W-L-W-W) |
A Legacy on the Line
Cejudo’s resume remains unmatched in combat sports history:
- 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist in freestyle wrestling at age 21
- First fighter to defend UFC titles in two weight classes
- Defeated MMA legends including Demetrious Johnson and Dominick Cruz
A loss tonight could cement his status as a fading star rather than an active contender. “This isn’t about money or fame anymore,” Cejudo stated during fight week preparations. “It’s about proving I still belong with the best.”
The Road Ahead
With UFC CEO Dana White recently telling ESPN that “the bantamweight division moves faster than any other,” both fighters understand the stakes. For Yadong, a win over a Hall of Fame-caliber opponent could launch him into title contention. For Cejudo, it may represent his last opportunity to add another chapter to an already historic career.
