Song Yadong: The Final Chapter for Henry Cejudo?
Song Yadong, the rising star of the UFC, is set to face the legendary Henry Cejudo in the main event of UFC Seattle on Saturday. This bout carries significant weight, not only for Song’s career but potentially for Cejudo’s future in the sport. Cejudo, who has already conquered two divisions and claimed Olympic gold, is returning from a short retirement that began in 2023. However, his comeback has been met with mixed results. In his first post-retirement fight at UFC 288, Cejudo lost a close decision to then-champion Aljamain Sterling. Nine months later, at UFC 298 in February 2024, he was on the wrong end of a more one-sided decision against the current champion, Merab Dvalishvili. With these setbacks, Cejudo is under immense pressure, and Song is determined to ensure this fight marks the end of his career.
A Respectful Rivalry
Despite the high stakes, Song Yadong expresses a deep sense of respect for his opponent, Henry Cejudo. He acknowledges Cejudo’s extraordinary achievements and the impact he has had on the sport. “Yeah, I think if he lost this one, this is his last fight, the last round,” Song told MMA Fighting. “But I will win the fight. I believe this is his last one, [his] last fight. This will be the last fight in Seattle. Time is over, it’s time to retire.” Song’s words reveal a mix of confidence and empathy. He understands the task at hand and the legacy his opponent brings into the octagon, which is why he admits he would feel a bit of remorse if he is the one to end Cejudo’s career. “I’d feel bad a little bit,” Song said. “Couldn’t hurt his microphone, you know. He’s a very interesting guy, I like him.”
Equal Records, Different Journeys
At 27 years old, Song Yadong is a decade younger than Henry Cejudo, yet both fighters have accumulated an impressive 10 wins out of 14 UFC appearances. This parity in records adds an extra layer of intrigue to their bout. Song, known for his disciplined approach and rapid improvement, has consistently impressed the MMA community with his performances. However, he recently faced a tough loss to former champion Petr Yan at UFC 299 in March, which snapped a two-fight win streak. This setback has only fueled his determination to succeed against Cejudo. “The Team Alpha Male prodigy is more than thrilled to headline an event for the first time in front of a big crowd in Seattle, while also getting the matchup he was hoping to get for almost a year,” Song said.
The Road to the Top
For Song Yadong, this fight represents a significant milestone. He has been calling out Cejudo for nearly a year, and the opportunity to finally face him has been a long-awaited moment. “That’s what I [wanted],” Song explained. “Last year, in May, I called him out. UFC wanted me to fight him in September, but he got injured and we finally got this one. Yeah, he’s a very good fighter — two-division UFC champion, Olympic champion, a lot of achievements. It’s an honor to fight him.” Song sees a victory against Cejudo as a stepping stone to bigger and more challenging matchups. He believes that a win could propel him into the top 5 and ultimately secure a title shot. “So if I win this fight, I have another chance to challenge the top 5,” Song said. “If I win this one, give me top 5 fighters, for sure, [then] one more, two more, I will get a title shot.”
The Meaning of the Fight
The main event at UFC Seattle is more than just a fight for Song Yadong; it is a testament to his growth and dedication. Song has faced numerous challenges in his career, but he remains focused and determined. Heading into this fight, he is well aware of the pressure and the expectations, but he views them as motivation rather than a burden. “This is a huge opportunity for me,” Song explained. “It’s not just about winning the fight; it’s about proving myself and showing the world what I’m capable of. I’ve been training hard, and I believe I have what it takes to come out victorious.”
Looking Forward
While the immediate focus is on the fight against Henry Cejudo, Song Yadong has his eyes set on the future. He envisions a path that leads him to the pinnacle of his sport, the UFC world championship. “I have big dreams, and this fight is a part of that journey,” Song said. “I want to show everyone that I can compete with the best and that I belong at the top. If I win, I will take this momentum and use it to face even tougher opponents.” Song’s determination and respect for his opponent highlight the true spirit of MMA, where fighters can be fierce competitors while still acknowledging the humanity and greatness of those they face. This weekend, the world will watch as two exceptional athletes face off in what could be the final chapter of an epic career.
