Issue 205
May 2024
Henry Cejudo cemented his legacy as one of the sport's greatest by becoming a double champion, securing the vacant bantamweight title in a thrilling bout against Marlon Moraes. Already the UFC flyweight champion and an Olympic gold medallist in freestyle wrestling, Cejudo's performance that night etched his name in the annals of UFC history.
The fight began with Cejudo on the backfoot as Moraes attacked his legs with powerful kicks. The first round saw him struggling to find his rhythm, visibly affected by the onslaught. However, the tide turned dramatically in the second round. Cejudo pressured Moraes with aggressive combinations, tiring his opponent.
By the third round, Cejudo's strategy paid off. He secured a crucial takedown, flirted with a guillotine choke, and then unleashed a barrage of elbows and hammer fists. With Moraes unable to defend himself adequately, the referee stepped in at 4:51 of the round, awarding Cejudo the victory via TKO. This win made him the fourth fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two different weight classes simultaneously, joining the ranks of legends like Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, and Amanda Nunes.
Cejudo's triumph was not just a testament to his skill but also his indomitable spirit. After the fight, he called out several notable fighters, including former champions Dominick Cruz and Cody Garbrandt, hinting at a potential move to the 145-pound division. His ambition and confidence were palpable, further solidifying his status as a dominant force in the UFC.
Cejudo's victory at UFC 238 was a defining moment in his career, highlighting his versatility and determination. It was a night that fans would remember for its dramatic turnarounds and spectacular finishes, adding yet another chapter to the storied history of the UFC.
Date: June 8, 2019, UFC 238
Location: United Center, Chicago, Illinois
