Asu Almabayev’s Cagey Comments on Henry Cejudo
Ahead of his first UFC main event, surging flyweight contender Asu Almabayev is not shy about his thoughts on Henry Cejudo’s recent performance and future in the sport. Cejudo, a 38-year-old former two-division champion, has faced a series of setbacks, most recently losing a technical decision to Song Yadong due to an accidental eye poke. This latest loss marks three consecutive defeats since his return from a short retirement. When the topic of points being deducted for fouls came up, Almabayev, who headlines UFC Vegas 103 against Manel Kape, took a pragmatic stance. "I’m not a judge, I don’t know how to judge it, I don’t know who takes points away or who gives the points," he told MMA Fighting. "I didn’t watch the fight. I just watched that little moment where there was an eye poke and then I saw how the fight ended."
A Case for Retirement?
Almabayev’s comments about Cejudo’s fighting future are both respectful and honest. "But obviously, if you think about it, Cejudo is not the same fighter that he used to be once. If you say to yourself that I’m going to retire, if you say to the world that I’m going to retire, then you should probably stay retired," he said. The 31-year-old recognizes the physical and mental toll that combat sports can take on an athlete, especially as they age. "This is a young man’s sport. This is something where if your body and your mind tell you that it’s time to go, then it’s probably time to go."
Almabayev’s Own Journey
Asu Almabayev’s journey to the main event of UFC Vegas 103 is a testament to his skill and dedication. He enters the fight on a remarkable 17-fight win streak, including a perfect 4-0 record in the UFC. This bout against Manel Kape is the biggest of his career, and he replaces Brandon Royval, who was forced to withdraw due to injury. "I’m always ready to step up and take on any challenge," Almabayev said. "When I got the call to step in for this main event, I didn’t hesitate. I’m excited for this opportunity and I’m going to make the most of it."
The Art of Officiating
The ongoing debate about officiating and the appropriate handling of fouls is a contentious one in the MMA community. Almabayev, known for his straightforward approach, believes that the decision should be made on a case-by-case basis. "The situations could be different. There’s a lot of things happening during the fight and I think it’s a case to case basis," he explained. This nuanced perspective highlights Almabayev’s respect for the complexity of the sport and the challenges faced by officials.
A Young Man’s Sport
Almabayev’s comments about Cejudo’s future reflect a deeper understanding of the physical demands of MMA. As athletes age, the risks and the tolls of the sport become more pronounced. "Combat sports are incredibly demanding, both physically and mentally," he said. "When you see a fighter like Cejudo, who has been at the top of the sport, it’s clear that something has changed. The body and mind can only take so much, and when they start to tell you it’s time to go, you have to listen."
Looking Forward
Asu Almabayev is focused on the task at hand: delivering a memorable performance in his main event at UFC Vegas 103. His thoughts on Cejudo and the broader issues in the sport are a reminder of the physical and mental fortitude required to succeed in MMA. "I’m honored to be in the main event and I’m ready to show the world what I can do," he said. "This is just the beginning for me, and I’m excited to see what the future holds."
