UFC Fight Night 252 is set to electrify fans on Saturday, with live coverage commencing at 6 p.m. ET from the renowned Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. This event showcases a powerful lineup of mixed martial arts athletes, headlined by the notable former champion Henry Cejudo. Cejudo, who holds titles in both the flyweight and bantamweight divisions, faces a crucial moment in his career as he aims to break free from a two-fight slump since his return from retirement. His opponent, Song Yadong, is a rising star with aspirations of etching his own name in MMA history.
Cejudo’s comeback has been marked by challenges, notably a pair of losses that have raised questions about whether he still possesses the elite edge that earned him championship titles. With a professional record of 16 wins and 4 losses, Cejudo’s experience is unparalleled; however, the pressure to perform intensifies with each passing bout. Facing an adversary like Yadong, who boasts an impressive record of 21 wins, 8 losses, and 1 draw, Cejudo must tap into his vast skill set to reclaim his position among the elite. The psychological aspect of competing against younger, hungry fighters could be a pivotal factor in the matchup.
While the main event garners significant attention, the co-main fight between Brendan Allen and Anthony Hernandez deserves equal recognition. Both fighters exhibit skill and tenacity, with Allen at 24 wins and 6 losses and Hernandez at 13 wins against only 2 losses. Their bout could very well determine the trajectory of their careers, making it a must-watch for dedicated fans. Furthermore, supporting fights featuring competitors like Rob Font, Jean Matsumoto, Melsik Baghdasaryan, and Alonzo Menifield promise to deliver exciting action and potential upsets.
Preliminary Fights Deliver Fresh Talent
Before the main card electrifies the arena, the preliminary bouts present unique opportunities for lesser-known fighters to showcase their skills. Athletes such as Ibo Aslan and Ion Cutelaba will take the octagon, each hoping to seize the spotlight and make a case for future main card appearances. With the likes of Javid Basharat and Ricky Simon also on the preliminary schedule, spectators can expect a series of fierce battles that highlight the depth of talent within the UFC roster.
UFC Fight Night 252 promises a memorable night for MMA enthusiasts, merging the excitement of Cejudo’s comeback with the aspirations of formidable contenders across weight classes. With the event broadcasting live on ESPN+, fans can look forward to round-by-round updates and thrilling matchups both on the main card and the preliminary slate. As the fighters step into the cage, the question remains: will Cejudo reignite his championship momentum, or will Yadong ascend into the ranks of the elite? The answer awaits as the action unfolds in Seattle.