Khabib Nurmagomedov has a gameplan for Henry Cejudo to end his career (again) with a bang, but it involves serious discipline and a busy 2025 for UFC’s former double champ and Olympic gold medalist.
In a fascinating new video shared on Cejudo’s site, “Triple C” told Khabib he was considering a return to 125 pounds, a move that Nurmagomedov thought was smart given the current lack of big name contenders in the Flyweight division.
“There is no other option for Pantoja — there is no fight,” Khabib said. “I think if they want some big fight for this weight class, they have to make this. Cejudo vs. Pantoja.”
“I can make [125], it’s just a lot of discipline,” Cejudo responded. “Like, I gotta maybe fast for a week, lose a good 10 pounds, then from there be on a strict diet. I lose about 15 pounds [just drinking water].”
The big issue in the eyes of “The Eagle?” The expiration date on 37-year-old Cejudo’s career.
“We have to recognize real things,” Khabib told Cejudo. “Like, if I talk about yourself, I think you’re old for this sport. But, if I’m promoter, I try to make Pantoja fight with you because there is nobody else. There is nobody else. Cejudo vs. Pantoja is gonna be big name. Bring somebody old with big name, make them fight.”
“Even if he was to beat me, it elevates him because he beat a legend,” Cejudo said.
“But, people underestimate Olympic champions,” Khabib continued. “These are not normal people. They are one up from normal people. They don’t understand Olympic champion level.”
Cejudo is currently on a two-fight losing streak and hasn’t competed since getting rag-dolled by Merab Dvalishvili back in in Feb. 2024. So, Nurmagomedov laid out a way to make Cejudo’s Flyweight title run possible.
“This is what you need: one fight 135, to bring your body back,” Khabib said. “When you win this fight, after that don’t take long vacation … You fight February, March take off, and jump April [into] training camp. Fight June, July, International Fight Week at 125 for the title. Can you imagine you come back and win 125 title? You can [do it]! I’m gonna talk with Dana, too.”
Will Dana White be down with the idea? If he isn’t at first blush, Khabib could convince him. He certainly convinced us. Cejudo title run at 125 pounds in 2025.
Let’s go!
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