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Payton Talbott Beats Henry Cejudo at UFC 323 as Former Two-Division Champion Retires

The result elevates Talbott into the contender conversation, underscoring how Cejudo's late-career return met its limit.

Overview

  • Talbott won a decision over Cejudo on Dec. 6 in Las Vegas, handing the Olympic gold medalist his fourth straight loss since his 2023 comeback.
  • Cejudo told reporters, "This is it for me, guys," confirming his retirement after a career that included UFC titles at flyweight and bantamweight.
  • Talbott said he mimicked Max Holloway’s point-down gesture to offer Cejudo “his retirement chance,” and he praised the 38-year-old’s toughness.
  • Post-fight comments highlighted Talbott’s multiple takedowns of the former Olympic wrestler, and coverage suggested he could enter the bantamweight top 10.
  • Demetrious Johnson said he partly blames himself for encouraging Cejudo to un-retire, as reporting also pointed to a severe eye poke against Song Yadong earlier this year influencing Cejudo’s decision.