Henry Cejudo Talks UFC Titles and Career on JRE MMA Show #97

Henry Cejudo discusses his UFC career as a two-division champion on JRE MMA Show #97. He reflects on key fights, retirement, and his training philosophy in this insightful episode.

Henry Cejudo's Journey as a Two-Division Champion

Henry Cejudo, the former UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion, recently appeared on the JRE MMA Show #97 to discuss his illustrious career in mixed martial arts. As a rare two-division champion, Cejudo shared insights into the challenges and triumphs of competing at the highest level in the UFC. He detailed the dedication required to capture titles in both the 125-pound and 135-pound divisions, emphasizing the physical and mental toll of cutting weight and facing elite competition.

Cejudo spoke about his historic wins, including his victory over Demetrious Johnson to claim the flyweight belt and his subsequent triumph over Marlon Moraes for the bantamweight title. He highlighted the strategic preparation that went into each fight, underscoring his adaptability as a fighter with a strong wrestling base complemented by evolving striking skills.

Reflections on Key Fights and Opponents

During the conversation, around the 45:30 mark, Cejudo delved into specific matchups that defined his career. He discussed his rivalry with Dominick Cruz, whom he defeated to defend his bantamweight title at UFC 249. Cejudo explained the technical aspects of that fight, noting how he exploited Cruz's movement patterns with precise striking and timing. He also touched on the significance of that win, given Cruz's status as a veteran and former champion.

Additionally, Cejudo reflected on his bout against TJ Dillashaw, where he defended his flyweight title in a highly anticipated clash. He described the intensity of facing a fighter coming down from a higher weight class and how he managed to secure a quick finish, showcasing his ability to capitalize on openings early in the fight.

Thoughts on Retirement and Future Plans

At approximately the 1:10:15 point, the discussion shifted to Cejudo's surprising retirement announcement following his victory over Cruz. He elaborated on his decision to step away from the sport at the peak of his career, citing personal goals and a desire to explore life outside the octagon. Cejudo expressed contentment with his achievements, including becoming an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling before transitioning to MMA success.

He also hinted at potential future endeavors, though he remained non-committal about a return to fighting. Cejudo emphasized his focus on legacy, stating that he wanted to be remembered as one of the most accomplished combat athletes across multiple disciplines.

Training Philosophy and Mindset

Toward the latter part of the episode, near the 1:35:20 timestamp, Cejudo shared his approach to training and maintaining a champion's mindset. He discussed the importance of discipline, often training twice a day while balancing recovery to avoid burnout. Cejudo also spoke about the mental preparation required to face adversity in the cage, drawing from his wrestling background where resilience was key to overcoming challenges.

He offered insights into how he motivated himself through setbacks, using losses as learning opportunities to refine his game. This segment provided a glimpse into the work ethic that propelled him to the top of two UFC divisions, inspiring listeners with his relentless pursuit of excellence.

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