Sport

Henry Cejudo vs. Song Yadong: Epic UFC Fight Night Set for Seattle!

2025-01-06

Author: Jessica Wong

Get ready, fight fans!

The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as former two-division champion Henry Cejudo takes on No. 8 contender Song Yadong in the highly anticipated main event of UFC Fight Night on February 22 in Seattle. This event promises to be a thrill ride, with titles and pride on the line.

Cejudo's Comeback Challenge

Cejudo (16-4) is a storied figure in UFC history, renowned for his impressive accolades and Olympic background. At 38 years old, 'Triple C' will be stepping into the Octagon for just the third time since his unexpected retirement in 2020. After a three-year break, he faced Aljamain Sterling at UFC 288 in May 2023 but narrowly lost via split decision. Following that, Cejudo faced the relentless Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 298, where he suffered a unanimous decision defeat. With his back against the wall, he is desperate to reclaim his status and aims to secure his first win since triumphing over Dominick Cruz by stoppage at UFC 249.

Yadong's Determined Return

However, Cejudo will have a formidable opponent in Song Yadong, who is also looking to bounce back after a disappointing unanimous decision loss to former champion Petr Yan at UFC 299 in March. The 27-year-old knockout artist from China, holding a record of 21-8-1, is determined to deliver a strong performance, possibly with the support of a vibrant Chinese community rallying behind him in Seattle.

Co-Main Event Highlight

In an exciting co-main event, fans can look forward to a heated bantamweight battle between No. 9 contender Rob Font and former two-time champion Dominick Cruz. Cruz, 39, is returning to action after more than two years away from the Octagon, having last competed in August 2022 against Chito Vera. Known for his legendary wins over MMA legends like Urijah Faber and Demetrious Johnson, Cruz's legacy is on the line as he faces Font (21-8), who recently secured a decision victory over Kyler Phillips in October.

Strong Undercard Matches

The undercard is packed with top-tier talent, promising even more action. Notably, No. 9 middleweight contender Brendan Allen is set to face No. 13 Anthony Hernandez in a highly-anticipated rematch. Allen will be looking to recover from his recent loss to Nassourdine Imavov, while Hernandez aims to repeat his earlier success against Allen from their 2018 encounter.

Brazilian standout Joaquim Silva, one of the UFC's rising stars, will face off against Armenia's Melsik Baghdasaryan, and the highly regarded German prospect Islam Dulatov will clash with Adam Fugitt, making this undercard one to watch.

Local Favorites and Heavyweight Clash

The UFC is also working to feature popular fighter Michael Chiesa, from nearby Spokane, Washington, on the card. Plus, heavy-hitter Curtis Blaydes, ranked No. 5 in the heavyweight division, is set to take on Rizvan Kuniev.

Conclusion

Don't miss this action-packed night of fights! Mark your calendars, as February 22nd promises to be a date filled with unforgettable moments and potentially career-defining outcomes! Will Cejudo bounce back and prove his greatness, or will Yadong pull off a stunning upset? The Octagon awaits!