Henry Cejudo is a distinguished American mixed martial artist and former Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling, renowned for his exceptional achievements in both sports. Cejudo began his professional journey in mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2013, quickly establishing himself as a formidable competitor. He amassed an impressive record of 6-0 before signing with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 2014, where he made an immediate impact by winning his debut fight against Dustin Kimura by unanimous decision.
Cejudo’s ascent in the UFC was marked by his remarkable skill and determination. He became the UFC Flyweight Champion in 2018 after a thrilling rematch against Demetrious Johnson, earning the Fight of the Night award for his performance. This victory not only solidified his status as a top fighter but also made him the first Olympic gold medalist to win a UFC championship, showcasing his unique blend of wrestling and striking abilities.
In addition to his flyweight title, Cejudo achieved the rare distinction of becoming a double champion by winning the UFC Bantamweight Championship in 2019. His victory over Marlon Moraes via TKO further demonstrated his prowess, making him the fourth fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously. Cejudo’s dedication to excellence earned him multiple Performance of the Night bonuses, highlighting his ability to deliver thrilling performances.
After a brief retirement, Cejudo returned to the octagon in 2023, continuing to compete at the highest level. His legacy as one of the greatest combat athletes is underscored by his induction into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and his ongoing influence in the sport. Cejudo’s journey exemplifies resilience, skill, and an unwavering commitment to greatness.