UFC

UFC Seattle Weigh-ins: Henry Cejudo and Yadong Song Ready for Battle

Garrett Kerman Sports Editor

Published21 Feb 2025

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The stage is officially set for UFC Seattle, the UFC’s final event of February 2025. Following a smooth weigh-in process on Friday, all 24 fighters across the 12 scheduled bouts successfully made weight, ensuring the card remains intact. Headlining the event is a highly anticipated bantamweight clash between former two-division champion Henry Cejudo and rising contender Yadong Song. Both athletes hit their marks, with Cejudo coming in at 135 pounds and Song weighing 136 pounds.

Henry Cejudo broke a fortune cookie on the scale at #UFCSeattle‘s final faceoff then said he’s “surprised Song (Yadong) can speak English.” pic.twitter.com/JvcAuHZJtt

— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) February 22, 2025

This pivotal main event will showcase two fighters at very different points in their careers. For Cejudo, this fight represents a critical opportunity to prove he still belongs among the elite after two consecutive losses since ending his retirement. Meanwhile, Song is looking to solidify his status as a top contender in the division by taking out one of its most decorated veterans. The event will air live on ESPN+, with prelims kicking off at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and the main card starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Henry Cejudo’s Redemption Arc

Henry “The Messenger” Cejudo (16-4) enters this fight with his back against the wall. The former Olympic gold medalist and UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion returned to active competition in 2023 after a three-year retirement but has yet to taste victory in his comeback. His losses came against top-tier opposition: a razor-thin split decision against then-champion Aljamain Sterling and a competitive bout with current titleholder Merab Dvalishvili. Now at 38 years old, Cejudo is determined to prove he still has what it takes to make another title run.

Weighing in precisely at 135 pounds, Cejudo appeared focused and confident during the weigh-ins. Known for his wrestling pedigree and evolving striking game, he will need to bring his full arsenal against Song, an opponent who thrives in high-paced exchanges. A win here could reignite Cejudo’s career and reinsert him into the championship conversation.

Yadong Song’s Rise Continues

On the other side of the octagon stands Yadong “Kung Fu Kid” Song (21-8-1, 1 NC), a fighter whose exciting style has made him a fan favorite. At just 27 years old, Song has already amassed significant experience in the UFC, including three previous main event appearances. His recent record reflects both his potential and the challenges of competing at the highest level: victories over Chris Gutierrez and Ricky Simon are offset by losses to elite contenders Petr Yan and Cory Sandhagen.

Song tipped the scales at 136 pounds, looking ready for his fourth UFC headliner. Known for his explosive striking and relentless pace, he will look to test Cejudo’s cardio and durability over five rounds. A win over a former champion like Cejudo would be a major feather in Song’s cap and could position him as a legitimate title challenger in one of the UFC’s deepest divisions.