Henry Cejudo is set to return to the Octagon at UFC 323 on March 30, 2024, where he will face Payton Talbott in what he has announced will be his final fight. Cejudo, at 38 years old, is one of the most accomplished athletes in combat sports history, holding titles in two divisions and an Olympic gold medal in freestyle wrestling. His storied career has captivated fans and made him a prominent figure in the sport.
In a recent appearance on the “TMZ Sports” TV show, which airs nightly on FS1, Cejudo expressed his thoughts on this pivotal moment in his life. “Saturday’s my last fight. I’ve been doing this since the age of 11,” he stated. “Do I still have it physically? 100%. But I just feel like I’ve been able to learn a lot of new things in life, and I’m just ready for the second chapter, man.”
Cejudo’s achievements place him among an elite group of just 11 fighters in UFC history to have held championships in two weight classes. His unique status is further elevated by the fact that he is the only one among them to have secured an Olympic gold medal, underscoring his exceptional credentials in both wrestling and mixed martial arts.
As he prepares for this significant fight, Cejudo reflected on the emotional aspects of the event. “Not really. To me, it’s just another fight,” he said with laughter. “If there’s anything that kind of came up, it’s just a little bit of gratitude. You go through these hard camps and have coaches and training partners sacrifice their time for you. I think that’s the only thing that really comes to mind that I’m really feeling, but other than that, bro, it’s all business in there.”
Looking ahead, Cejudo has plans beyond the UFC. He noted, “I’m gonna be 39 next month. I’m 38 now, 38 years young. I want to enjoy the holidays. I’m dabbling in real estate, and a bunch of other stuff. Obviously, the content with Pound 4 Pound. I’m happy with this decision.”
The upcoming bout will also present challenges for Cejudo, who faces a significant height disadvantage against Talbott, who is seven inches taller. Despite this, Cejudo remains focused and determined as he approaches the Octagon for the last time.
In addition to his fight preparation, Cejudo spoke about the bantamweight division and the legacy he leaves behind. He discussed whether Merab Dvalishvili could be considered the greatest of all time in the division, showing his continued engagement with the sport even as he transitions into retirement.
As UFC 323 approaches, the anticipation for Cejudo’s final performance grows, marking the end of an era for one of the sport’s most decorated athletes. Fans and fellow fighters alike will be watching closely to see how this legendary competitor concludes his remarkable journey in the Octagon.
