Payton Talbott Set to Face Henry Cejudo in Potential Farewell Fight
Payton Talbott and Henry Cejudo find themselves in an unexpected matchup as Cejudo prepares for what may be his final fight in the octagon.
Cejudo will take on Talbott in a bantamweight main card bout at UFC 323 this Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Talbott expressed his surprise at the UFC’s decision to create this pairing, but he felt he couldn’t pass on the opportunity.
Though Cejudo is known for his spirited approach and ability to provoke his opponents during fight weeks, Talbott is ready for whatever Cejudo might throw at him, owing to his prior interactions with the Olympic gold medalist.
“We’re pretty familiar with each other,” Talbott shared with MMA Fighting. “I think it would take a lot to truly catch me off guard, and I believe he understands that too. I’m quite laid-back, but I’m curious to see what unfolds during fight week.”
This fight marks Cejudo’s fourth appearance since resuming his MMA career after his initial retirement, which began post-UFC 249 in May 2020. He returned after a three-year break, losing decisions to Aljamain Sterling, Merab Dvalishvili, and most recently, Song Yadong.
It was prior to Cejudo’s fight with Dvalishvili that Talbott had the chance to connect with him, receiving lasting advice from the former two-division champion.
Talbott, a prominent prospect from Dana White’s Contender Series, suffered his first career loss to Raoni Barcelos at UFC 322 in January, but rebounded with a strong decision victory over Felipe Lima at UFC 317 in June.
Talbott acknowledges that several ranked opponents declined to face him, but with Cejudo accepting the challenge, he feels fortunate to test himself so early in his career. He is particularly honored to be Cejudo’s final competitor, emphasizing the rarity of such an opportunity.
“It’s an amazing honor to be his last opponent,” Talbott remarked. “I think it’s a unique chance, and I’m eager to prove myself against a legendary fighter. Cejudo will come with everything he’s got, and I aim to give it my best in the octagon.”
