Former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo had hinted at retirement if he lost against Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 298. However, despite his apparent retirement gesture inside the Octagon, he was denied the opportunity to address the audience by UFC President Dana White.
Cejudo faced a tough challenge against Dvalishvili in Anaheim, where he struggled against his opponent’s relentless pace and varied skill set. This loss marks his second consecutive defeat since coming out of retirement last year. The retired following a successful bantamweight title defense against Dominick Cruz at UFC 249.
Despite his intentions to retire, Cejudo was not given the chance to make an official announcement post-fight, nor was he present at the press conference. White clarified the decision, emphasizing that the night belonged to Dvalishvili, who secured a significant victory against a former champion.
White previously expressed skepticism about Cejudo’s initial retirement at UFC 249, suggesting it was premature given Cejudo’s status as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters and his history of accomplishments in the sport.
Cejudo’s legacy in the UFC includes victories over notable opponents such as Demetrious Johnson, TJ Dillashaw, and Cruz. However, his recent split decision loss to Aljamain Sterling at UFC 288 further complicated his career trajectory.
While Cejudo’s retirement remains uncertain, if he chooses to hang up his gloves after UFC 298, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of the greatest combat sports athletes of all time, boasting an Olympic gold medal and two UFC championships.
