The recent UFC Seattle event brought fans excitement, but it also delivered a surprising twist for former champion Henry Cejudo. On February 22, 2025, Cejudo faced Song Yadong in a highly anticipated matchup that took an unexpected turn due to a controversial incident in the ring.
Another Tough Night for Cejudo
It was the kind of night that started with high hopes but quickly turned sour for Henry Cejudo. After a challenging return to competition, having lost his previous two fights since coming out of retirement, Cejudo entered the octagon determined to showcase his skills. However, things did not go as planned, and once again, he found himself on the losing side of a technical decision. This loss marked Cejudo’s third consecutive defeat, raising questions about his future in the sport.
What Happened in the Fight?
The fight began with both fighters exchanging blows and trying to establish their rhythm. Cejudo showed his agility and striking power, but Song Yadong was quick and deliberate. In the third round, the fight took a drastic turn when a double eye poke by Yadong halted the action. Cejudo’s cornermen immediately called for a doctor to check on their fighter, as Cejudo revealed he could not see properly from one eye. This unfortunate incident left fans in shock and wondering how such a critical moment could derail the match.
The Controversy Unfolds
With the doctor’s intervention, the fight could not continue, leading the referee to declare a technical decision. The judges scored the fight 29-28 in favor of Yadong, despite the circumstances surrounding the stoppage. Many in the crowd voiced their displeasure, feeling that the outcome was unfair. Critics pointed out that a point deduction against Yadong for the foul could have changed the final result and potentially led to a draw.
A Rematch in Sight?
In the moments following the fight, tensions remained high. Yadong, aware of the controversy surrounding the ending, expressed a willingness to face Cejudo again in a rematch. Cejudo, frustrated but undeterred, also indicated he would welcome the opportunity to square off with Yadong once more. Fans are now left wondering whether a rematch will be scheduled, especially after such an unusual conclusion to their first fight.
Impact on Cejudo’s Career
For Cejudo, this loss raises serious questions about his future in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Once a two-division champion and a source of inspiration for many aspiring fighters, Cejudo’s recent performance has drawn scrutiny. Can he reclaim his status in the bantamweight division, or has the sport moved past him? Following his post-fight discussions, it seems Cejudo is not ready to give up just yet. He is passionate about proving he still has what it takes to compete at a high level.
Looking Ahead
The UFC Seattle event featured more than just Cejudo’s fight, with many fans entertained by a series of bouts that included intense action and some dramatic finishes. Notably, Anthony Hernandez earned a unanimous decision victory in the co-main event, marking yet another milestone in his impressive UFC career. As fans celebrate the excitement from the night’s fights, all eyes are on Cejudo and whether he will take the steps needed to bounce back and make a decisive impact in the octagon once more.
