UFC Fight Night: Expert Predictions And Best Bets For The Upcoming Cejudo Vs Yadong Fight

Henry Cejudo, the former two-division champion, steps into the Octagon this Saturday in an attempt to reclaim his position as a top contender in the bantamweight division. His opponent? The young and powerful Song Yadong, who is hungry to prove himself against one of the sport’s most decorated fighters. Cejudo vs Yadong is set to be a high-stakes battle that could shape the future of the division.

Cejudo hasn’t had the best luck since returning from retirement. He fell short in his comeback fight against Aljamain Sterling and then suffered another setback against the current champion, Merab Dvalishvili. A third consecutive loss could place him in a difficult position where title contention may no longer be realistic.

On the other hand, Song is also looking for redemption after losing to former bantamweight champion Petr Yan at UFC 299. This fight is crucial for both fighters, as the winner will likely enter the conversation for a future title shot.

Breaking Down the Main Event: Strengths and Weaknesses

How Henry Cejudo Can Win

Cejudo is known for his wrestling pedigree, which was the foundation of his success in both the Olympics and the UFC. However, against a younger, faster opponent like Song, implementing that strategy may be challenging.

If Cejudo can close the distance, force clinch exchanges, and use his high-level wrestling to control Song on the ground, he stands a good chance of grinding out a decision win. His ability to mix up striking with takedowns will be key, as he lacks the finishing ability of some other top contenders. Additionally, his experience in championship fights will be an asset if the fight extends into the later rounds.

How Song Yadong Can Win

Song has the speed, power, and technical striking to make this a difficult night for Cejudo. If he can keep the fight standing, utilize his quick footwork, and punish Cejudo with well-timed counters, he has the potential to finish the former champ.

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One major factor in Song’s favor is the age difference. Fighters over 35 have historically struggled in the lower weight classes, where speed and reaction time are crucial. If Song can force Cejudo into prolonged striking exchanges and land damaging shots early, he could either secure a knockout or wear Cejudo down enough to dominate in the later rounds.

X-Factors: What Could Decide the Fight?

One of the biggest unknowns heading into this matchup is Cejudo’s motivation. Why did he take this fight? Did he see a flaw in Song’s game that he believes he can exploit, or is he simply fighting to stay relevant? If he lacks a clear game plan, it could spell disaster for him.

For Song, the key is mindset. He must not let Cejudo’s legacy intimidate him. If he fights aggressively and focuses on execution rather than reputation, he could make a strong statement with a win.

Expert Prediction

Coach Marc Montoya and other experts lean towards Song Yadong securing the victory. If the fight ends early, it will likely be due to Song’s striking. However, if it goes the distance, Cejudo’s experience could help him edge out a tough decision. The safer bet? Song to win, with the likelihood of a finish increasing in the later rounds.

Betting Breakdown: Where’s the Smart Money?

Odds and Value Picks

Song Yadong is the betting favorite at -280, while Cejudo sits as an underdog. These odds reflect Cejudo’s recent losses and the natural disadvantage of an older fighter against a younger, hungry contender.

Best Bet: Song Yadong to Win & Over 2.5 Rounds

Although Song is favored, the safest play is to pair his win with the over 2.5 rounds bet. Cejudo is incredibly tough and has never been knocked out, so a finish may not be guaranteed. If Song wins, it’s likely via a late stoppage or a decision.

Source: UFC Fight Night: Expert picks, best bets for Cejudo vs. Song

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Other Fights to Watch: Key Bets on the Undercard

Brendan Allen vs. Anthony Hernandez (Middleweight Bout)

Best Bet: Hernandez to win by decision
Why? Hernandez is on a six-fight winning streak, showcasing relentless pressure and cardio that breaks opponents. Allen is a solid striker but could struggle against Hernandez’s pace. Since this is a three-round fight, Allen might survive to the final bell, making Hernandez by decision a great value pick.

Rob Font vs. Jean Matsumoto (Catchweight Bout)

Best Bet: Rob Font to win (+130)
Why? Font was originally scheduled to fight Dominick Cruz but now faces an undefeated yet inexperienced Matsumoto. Despite Matsumoto’s perfect record, this is a massive jump in competition for him, especially on short notice. Font’s experience against elite bantamweights makes him a solid pick at plus-money odds.

Jean Silva vs. Melsik Baghdasaryan (Featherweight Bout)

Best Bet: Over 2.5 Rounds (+105)
Why? Both fighters have knockout potential, but Baghdasaryan’s technical striking could turn this into a competitive, drawn-out battle. Rather than picking a winner, betting on this fight going beyond 2.5 rounds offers good value.

UFC Fight Night: Expert Predictions and Best Bets for the Upcoming Cejudo vs Yadong Fight

Final Thoughts: What’s at Stake for Cejudo and Song?

This main event is more than just a fight—it’s a defining moment in both fighters’ careers. For Cejudo, a loss would likely push him out of the title picture permanently. For Song, a win would propel him into contention and prove he belongs among the division’s elite.

Will Cejudo’s experience and wrestling prevail, or will Song’s youth and striking lead to a changing of the guard? All questions will be answered when they step into the Octagon on Saturday night.

Make sure to tune in to UFC Fight Night on ESPN+ at 9 p.m. for the main card, with prelims starting at 6 p.m. This is a fight you won’t want to miss!