Cejudo's Triple-Division Dreams: What If He Fought?

Imagine a world where Henry Cejudo made history, becoming the first-ever triple-division champion in UFC history. A few years ago, this incredible feat was almost within reach. But what would have happened if that fight had actually materialized? Let's dive deep into the possibilities and explore how Cejudo could have etched his name even further into MMA legend. This article explores the tantalizing "what if" scenario surrounding Henry Cejudo's potential quest for triple-division glory.

The Cejudo Legacy: A Foundation of Gold

Before we delve into the hypothetical matchup, it’s crucial to understand the foundation upon which Cejudo's legacy was built. An Olympic gold medalist in wrestling, Henry "Triple C" Cejudo transitioned seamlessly into mixed martial arts, rapidly ascending the ranks. His journey to the top was marked by unwavering determination, relentless training, and a strategic approach to each fight. Cejudo's wrestling pedigree gave him a significant edge, but it was his evolving striking and fight IQ that truly set him apart. Cejudo's ability to blend his grappling prowess with increasingly dangerous striking made him a formidable opponent for anyone, regardless of weight class.

Cejudo's initial success came in the flyweight division, where he dethroned the long-reigning Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson – a feat many considered nearly impossible. This victory not only earned Cejudo the flyweight title but also signaled a new era in the division. He then moved up to bantamweight, where he faced Marlon Moraes for the vacant title. In a thrilling fight, Cejudo overcame early adversity to secure a TKO victory, claiming his second UFC championship and cementing his status as a two-division champion. This accomplishment immediately sparked conversations about a potential third title run, making the "what if" scenario incredibly compelling. His achievements in both divisions showcased his adaptability and championship mindset, proving that he was more than just a wrestler; he was a complete mixed martial artist. The foundation of his legacy was not just built on gold medals and championship belts, but also on his relentless pursuit of greatness and his ability to overcome any challenge placed before him.

The Hypothetical Opponent: Who Would Cejudo Face?

The million-dollar question, of course, is who Cejudo would have faced in his pursuit of a third title. While no specific opponent was ever officially named, there were several intriguing possibilities. The most likely scenario would have seen Cejudo moving up to the featherweight division, challenging the reigning champion at 145 pounds. At the time, the featherweight division boasted a number of dominant fighters, each presenting a unique challenge to Cejudo's ambitions. Some names that were frequently discussed in the context of a potential Cejudo fight included Alexander Volkanovski. Max Holloway, another former champion, also presented a compelling matchup due to his high-volume striking and relentless pace.

Another potential, albeit less likely, scenario would have involved Cejudo moving up two weight classes to challenge for the lightweight title. This would have been a massive undertaking, as the lightweight division is known for its depth of talent and the size and power of its competitors. Regardless of the specific opponent, the challenge for Cejudo would have been significant. Moving up in weight means facing larger, stronger opponents, and adapting his training and game plan accordingly. However, Cejudo's track record of overcoming adversity and his championship pedigree suggested that he would have been a formidable challenger in any division. The speculation surrounding his potential opponent only added fuel to the fire, making the "what if" scenario even more captivating for fans and analysts alike. Ultimately, the choice of opponent would have played a crucial role in the outcome of the fight, making this a central element of the hypothetical matchup.

Analyzing the Styles: Cejudo's Strengths vs. the Featherweight Elite

To truly understand the potential outcome of this hypothetical fight, we need to analyze the stylistic matchups. Cejudo's wrestling base would have been a significant advantage against almost any featherweight, but his striking had also evolved considerably. His ability to mix takedowns with strikes made him a difficult puzzle to solve. Cejudo's low center of gravity and explosive takedown ability would have posed a serious threat to any featherweight champion. However, the featherweight division is known for its dynamic strikers and submission specialists.

Fighters like Volkanovski, with his crisp striking and relentless pressure, would have tested Cejudo's defensive capabilities. Holloway's high-volume attack and cardio would have pushed Cejudo's conditioning to the limit. Other potential opponents might have presented different challenges, such as a greater submission threat or a significant reach advantage. Cejudo's striking had improved dramatically throughout his career, but he would have likely needed to rely on his wrestling to control the fight and dictate the pace. His ability to close the distance and secure takedowns would have been crucial to his success. However, the featherweight elite are not easily controlled, and Cejudo would have faced a tough test in trying to implement his game plan. The clash of styles is what makes this hypothetical matchup so intriguing, as it pits Cejudo's strengths against the unique challenges presented by the featherweight division's best.

The Path to Victory: How Cejudo Could Have Made History

So, how could Cejudo have actually made history and become a triple-division champion? The most likely path to victory would have involved a strategic game plan that utilized his wrestling to neutralize his opponent's strengths. Cejudo would have needed to control the center of the octagon, close the distance effectively, and secure takedowns at opportune moments. His ability to maintain top control and inflict damage from the ground would have been crucial. However, Cejudo couldn't solely rely on his wrestling. He would have needed to mix in his striking to keep his opponent guessing and create openings for takedowns.

His improved striking, particularly his powerful overhand right, could have been a key weapon. Cardio would have also been a major factor, as featherweight fights are known for their fast pace and high output. Cejudo would have needed to be in peak physical condition to withstand the pressure and maintain his wrestling intensity throughout the fight. Furthermore, mental fortitude would have been essential. Fighting for a third title against a larger opponent would have been a significant mental challenge. Cejudo would have needed to maintain his focus, composure, and belief in his abilities. Any lapse in concentration could have been costly against the featherweight elite. Ultimately, Cejudo's path to victory would have required a combination of strategic brilliance, technical execution, physical conditioning, and mental toughness. It would have been a monumental achievement, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time.

Why It Didn't Happen: The Unanswered Question

Of course, the sad reality is that this fight never happened. Cejudo retired from MMA in 2020, vacating his bantamweight title and putting an end to the speculation about a potential third title run. While he has since returned to the sport, the window of opportunity for that specific matchup has likely closed. The reasons behind Cejudo's initial retirement are complex and multifaceted. Burnout, financial considerations, and a desire to pursue other interests all likely played a role.

Cejudo had achieved tremendous success in a relatively short period, and the physical and mental toll of competing at the highest level can be immense. Contract negotiations and disputes with the UFC may have also contributed to his decision. Whatever the specific reasons, Cejudo's retirement left a void in the sport and deprived fans of the chance to see him pursue even greater heights. The "what if" scenario of his potential triple-division title run will forever remain one of the most intriguing unanswered questions in MMA history. While we can speculate and analyze, we will never truly know what would have happened if Cejudo had stepped into the octagon to challenge for a third title. This uncertainty is part of what makes the sport so captivating, as it leaves room for imagination and debate among fans and analysts alike.

The Legacy Remains: Cejudo's Place in MMA History

Despite the unfulfilled potential of a triple-division title run, Henry Cejudo's place in MMA history is already secure. He is one of only a handful of fighters to have held titles in two different weight classes, and his Olympic gold medal in wrestling adds another layer to his impressive resume. Cejudo's journey from Olympic champion to UFC champion is a testament to his dedication, talent, and unwavering belief in himself. His impact on the sport extends beyond his accomplishments in the octagon.

Cejudo's personality and his willingness to embrace the role of a showman have made him a popular figure among fans. His "Cringe King" persona may have been polarizing, but it also helped to elevate his profile and generate interest in his fights. Cejudo's legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring fighters, demonstrating that anything is possible with hard work and determination. He has proven that a wrestler can evolve into a complete mixed martial artist and achieve greatness in the UFC. While the triple-division title remains a "what if," Cejudo's accomplishments are undeniable, and his place in MMA history is firmly cemented. His story is a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination, and that the pursuit of greatness can lead to extraordinary achievements. For further insights into MMA history and fighter legacies, explore resources like Sherdog's fighter profiles.