Everyone is already thinking about UFC Fight Night: Cejudo vs. Song. The UFC returns to Seattle, Washington, on February 22, 2025, for an electrifying UFC Fight Night: Cejudo vs. Song event. Featuring former two-division champion Henry Cejudo taking on Song Yadong in the main event, this fight card is stacked with high-level talent and pivotal matchups that could shake up multiple divisions. With both fighters vying for a top spot in the bantamweight division, this bout promises fireworks.
Let’s break down the full fight card, analyze key matchups, discuss betting odds, and offer predictions for one of the most highly anticipated Fight Night events of the year.
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Main Event: Henry Cejudo vs. Song Yadong
The main event features an exciting clash between former UFC double champion Henry Cejudo and rising bantamweight star Song Yadong. Let’s analyze their stats, fighting styles, and what to expect in this five-round showdown.
Henry Cejudo – The Olympic Gold Medalist’s Comeback
Henry Cejudo (16-4 MMA, 10-4 UFC) is widely regarded as one of the greatest combat sports athletes of all time. The former Olympic gold medalist in wrestling and UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion is making his return after suffering a loss to Merab Dvalishvili in a tough matchup.
- Strengths: Elite wrestling, strong fight IQ, championship experience.
- Weaknesses: Age (38 years old), ring rust, limited reach.
Cejudo’s path to victory will likely revolve around his wrestling. If he can take Yadong down early and control the fight, he may cruise to a decision victory.
Song Yadong – The Rising Bantamweight Contender
Song Yadong (21-7-1 MMA, 10-2-1 UFC) is one of the most explosive strikers in the UFC’s bantamweight division. The 26-year-old Chinese fighter has notable victories over Marlon Moraes, Ricky Simon, and Cory Sandhagen.
- Strengths: Powerful striking, fast hands, solid takedown defense.
- Weaknesses: Tends to fade in later rounds, struggles against elite grapplers.
For Yadong to win, he must keep the fight standing and utilize his superior striking speed. A knockout victory is not out of the question if he can land clean shots early.
Prediction: Cejudo via Decision
While Song Yadong has the striking advantage, Cejudo’s world-class wrestling and championship experience may give him the edge in this matchup. Expect Cejudo to grind out a victory through grappling dominance and cage control.
Co-Main Event: Brendan Allen vs. Anthony Hernandez
The middleweight co-main event pits Brendan Allen against Anthony Hernandez in what promises to be an exciting clash of grappling specialists.
- Brendan Allen (23-5 MMA, 10-2 UFC): Allen is currently riding a winning streak and has impressive submission skills, making him a dangerous threat.
- Anthony Hernandez (15-4 MMA, 7-3 UFC): Known for his relentless pressure and high work rate, Hernandez will look to overwhelm Allen with pace and ground control.
Prediction: Allen via Submission (Round 2). Allen’s jiu-jitsu is on another level, and if he can get Hernandez on the ground, expect a quick finish.
Other Key Fights to Watch
Julius Walker vs. Alonzo Menifield (Light Heavyweight Bout)
A light heavyweight showdown between rising prospect Julius Walker and veteran Alonzo Menifield could steal the show. Walker, an undefeated knockout artist, is stepping into the octagon against Menifield, who has shown resilience in past battles.
Prediction: Walker via KO (Round 1). Walker’s power is undeniable, and Menifield’s chin may not hold up against a young, hungry finisher.
Mayra Bueno Silva vs. Julia Avila (Women’s Bantamweight Bout)
In a key women’s bantamweight bout, Mayra Bueno Silva faces Julia Avila, with both fighters looking to break into title contention. Bueno Silva’s submission game is elite, while Avila brings a high pace and powerful striking.
Prediction: Silva via Submission (Round 3). If she gets Avila to the mat, it’s game over.
Betting Odds & Predictions
According to DraftKings, the current betting odds are:
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Henry Cejudo (-150) vs. Song Yadong (+130): Cejudo’s experience and wrestling may give him a slight edge, but Yadong’s striking power makes this a closely contested bout.
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Dominick Cruz (-140) vs. Rob Font (+120): Cruz’s movement and experience could be pivotal, but Font’s reach and boxing skills pose a significant threat.
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Julius Walker (-110) vs. Alonzo Menifield (-110): This evenly matched fight could go either way, with Walker’s knockout power against Menifield’s resilience.
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Mayra Bueno Silva (-180) vs. Julia Avila (+150): Bueno Silva’s ground game might give her the advantage, but Avila’s aggressive striking could turn the tide.
Allen’s submission skills are his best weapon, and betting on him to win via tap-out provides good value.
Final Thoughts: What to Expect at UFC Fight Night: Cejudo vs. Song
With Henry Cejudo looking to reestablish himself as a title contender and Song Yadong aiming to score the biggest win of his career, this Fight Night promises high-stakes action. The co-main and undercard fights add even more intrigue, with young prospects and seasoned veterans battling for divisional relevance.
As the bantamweight division continues to evolve, a win for Cejudo could set up a future title fight, while a victory for Yadong would catapult him into the top tier of contenders. Regardless of the outcome, UFC fans are in for a thrilling night of fights.
