Henry Cejudo, an iconic figure in the world of mixed martial arts, is set to step into the Octagon at UFC 323 on March 9, 2024. This highly anticipated bout against Payton Talbott could mark the end of Cejudo’s remarkable career, which spans over two decades. Known for his accomplishments as a two-division champion in the UFC and an Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling, Cejudo’s decision to retire has drawn significant attention from both fans and analysts.
In a recent appearance on the “TMZ Sports” TV show, which airs nightly on FS1, Cejudo confirmed that this fight may be his last. “Saturday’s my last fight. I’ve been doing this since the age of 11,” he shared. At 38 years old, Cejudo expressed confidence in his physical capabilities, stating, “Do I still have it physically? 100%.” However, he also indicated a readiness to embrace new opportunities outside the sport, hinting at a desire for a “second chapter” in his life.
Reflecting on his emotions ahead of the fight, Cejudo remarked, “Not really. To me, it’s just another fight.” He acknowledged a sense of gratitude for the support he has received throughout his career. “If there’s anything that kind of came up, it’s just a little bit of gratitude… but other than that, it’s all business in there,” he added with a laugh.
Cejudo’s achievements in the sport are exceptional. He is one of only 11 fighters in UFC history to hold championships in two different weight divisions and remains the only one to also possess an Olympic gold medal. His legacy in combat sports is firmly established, but as he prepares for this pivotal moment, he is also looking ahead to life after fighting.
In terms of future plans, Cejudo mentioned, “I’m dabbling in real estate, and a bunch of other stuff. Obviously, the content with Pound 4 Pound.” He expressed enthusiasm for enjoying the holidays and embarking on new ventures as he approaches his 39th birthday next month.
As Cejudo prepares to face Talbott, he will also contend with a notable height disadvantage, as he faces an opponent who stands 7 inches taller. This challenge adds an intriguing layer to the matchup, which many fans are eagerly anticipating.
Cejudo’s career has been marked by resilience and a continuous drive for excellence. As UFC 323 approaches, the fight promises to be a significant event, not just for Cejudo, but for the sport as a whole. This final bout may well encapsulate his journey, leaving a lasting impression on his fans and fellow athletes alike.
