In the aftermath of the heated UFC Seattle main event on February 22, 2025, UFC CEO Dana White has decisively shut down the possibility of an immediate rematch between Henry Cejudo and Song Yadong. This decision follows a controversial ending, where an accidental eye poke by Yadong rendered Cejudo unable to continue, clinching a win for Yadong through a technical decision.
The Controversial Encounter
The bout was eagerly anticipated, with both fighters showcasing their prowess in the octagon. As the fight unfolded, Yadong appeared to gain an upper hand in the latter rounds, enhancing his scoreline across the judges’ cards—29-28, 29-28, and a decisive 30-27. But it was an unintentional eye poke that prematurely brought proceedings to a halt, leaving fans and experts hungry for a more conclusive finish.
Cejudo, known for his credentials as a former two-division champion, has experienced a rocky return to UFC action. Remaining winless (0-3) since coming out of retirement, the abruptness of the Seattle main event leaves both his record and aspirations unsettled. Nevertheless, Yadong’s triumph positions him as a rising force in the bantamweight division, inching him closer to potential bouts against leading figures such as Cory Sandhagen or Merab Dvalishvili.
Dana White Stands Firm
Despite the clamor from fans and the fighters alike, White responded at the post-fight press conference with an unyielding stance. 'Not at all. Not even a little bit. I just don’t want to see it again,' he declared, dismissing media questions about a potential rematch. The rejection could send Cejudo on a different career path, perhaps toward fighting other rising challengers, whereas Yadong's ascent seems poised for more immediate progression.
Interestingly, Yadong himself suggested an unconventional resolution to the matter, hinting at a possible sparring session outside official UFC events to definitively address the tension brewing from the inconclusive fight. This idea showcases the fighters' determination to settle their scores, regardless of formal matchmaking decisions.
While the future paths of Cejudo and Yadong remain uncertain, Dana White’s firm stance introduces new dynamics into their respective careers, leaving fans to wonder what unfolds next in the ever-thrilling UFC landscape.