Henry Cejudo, a celebrated mixed martial arts (MMA) competitor, is set to receive a $50,000 bonus following his recent retirement fight at UFC 323. This recognition comes even after Cejudo faced a loss to Payton Talbott at the TMobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Dana White’s Generous Bonus
Despite the defeat, UFC President Dana White pledged the bonus to Cejudo. The former twodivision champion and Olympic gold medalist left a lasting impression during the fight, showcasing remarkable resilience against his opponent.
A Memorable Fight
The match lasted three rounds, with Talbott emerging victorious by unanimous decision. Cejudo’s professional MMA record now stands at 16 wins and 6 losses. He is renowned for defeating top fighters including:
- Dominick Cruz
- Demetrious Johnson
- T.J. Dillashaw
- Marlon Moraes
His ability to absorb powerful strikes while maintaining his composure was noted by fans and commentators alike.
A Heartfelt Exchange
Immediately after the match, Cejudo had a poignant moment with Dana White. During their discussion, Cejudo requested White to look after Talbott and asked about the possibility of a bonus award. In response, White said, “Hey, fk it, I’ll give $50,000 anyway.” This interaction highlighted the mutual respect between the fighter and UFC’s leadership.
Cejudo’s Gratitude
In Cejudo’s final postfight interview inside the octagon, he expressed deep appreciation towards Dana White and the UFC team. Reflecting on the organization’s growth since its inception, Cejudo emphasized the transformation of the UFC from a $2 million purchase to a multibillion dollar enterprise. He remarked, “You guys have changed so many lives,” underscoring his respect for their contributions to the sport.
This heartfelt moment marks not only the end of Cejudo’s fighting career but also his lasting legacy in the sport of MMA. His gratitude towards Dana White and the UFC further cements the bond he shares with the promotion, reinforcing a legacy that will inspire future fighters.