Can Henry Cejudo turn his career around? The former two-division champion is stepping back into the octagon, aiming to break a tough losing streak. This comeback fight has everyone talking!
After a surprising end-of-year announcement, it seems that Henry Cejudo, the former champion in two weight classes, isn't ready to hang up his gloves just yet. Cejudo is currently navigating a challenging period, having experienced a three-fight losing streak—a first in his impressive career. This setback has kept him out of action since his controversial loss to Song Yadong earlier this year.
This recent defeat followed a title eliminator loss to Merab Dvalishvili, the current bantamweight champion, and a previous loss to former champion Aljamain Sterling. Now, Cejudo is preparing to fight someone lower in the rankings for the first time in years. He will be making his return to the bantamweight division, facing a fighter who came through the Contender Series.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Cejudo is scheduled to face Payton Talbott at UFC 323. This event is set to be the final pay-per-view of the year. The Olympic gold medalist Cejudo will be taking on the rising star, Payton Talbott.
Talbott is coming off his first career loss, an upset defeat to Raoni Barcelos at UFC 311 earlier this year. He also secured a decision win over Felipe Lima this summer. Despite Talbott not being ranked currently, Cejudo will be putting his status as the number 10-rated bantamweight on the line in this unexpected December return.
Dana White has announced that UFC 323 will take place on December 6th in Las Vegas, featuring a stacked card:
- Merab Dvalishvili vs. Petr Yan
- Alexandre Pantoja vs. Joshua Van
- Henry Cejudo vs. Payton Talbott
In addition to Cejudo's return, the event will include a title rematch between Dvalishvili and Petr Yan, and the flyweight crown will also be up for grabs. Alexandre Pantoja, the Brazilian megastar, will be returning in the co-main event against Joshua Van, who is coming off a Fight of the Year contender against Brandon Royval.
And this is the part most people miss...
Cejudo had initially retired after his victory over Dominick Cruz five years ago. He then made a comeback to fight Sterling. Following his eye injury against Yadong earlier this year, Cejudo considered retiring again due to the nature of the injury.
What do you think? Will Cejudo be able to overcome his losing streak and make a successful return? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
