Henry Cejudo

A lot has to happen before Henry Cejudo crosses paths with Alexander Volkanovski in the Octagon anytime soon. But, “Triple C” has begun campaigning for a shot at the 145 crown, and he’s also relayed, he thinks he can beat the new featherweight champ.

Henry Cejudo

Cejudo on why he thinks he’s a bad match-up for Volkanovski

As it stands right now, the expectation is that Cejudo will defend the bantamweight title against Jose Aldo next. Although the legend lost via split decision to Marlon Moraes in December, after the bout, Cejudo (and others), argued Aldo actually won the fight. He also called for a bout with the former featherweight champ and it looks like the UFC and Dana White are on board.

While talking to ESPN recently, however, Cejudo had this to say about Volkanovski (quote via MMA Mania):

“The other fight that kinda brings appetite to me is – and a lot of people will probably laugh, but that’s okay – Alexander Volkanovski. I do feel like I have the style to beat him, I sincerely do. I got good wrestling, I got my hands, we’re about the same height. I would eventually like to go up and fight him. He’s going to fight [Max] Holloway, I know that the rematch with him and Max is in the works. Me and Aldo can go at it and who knows, maybe afterwards we’ll see what’s up.”

Now, when you consider Volkanovski is somewhat short for 145 – he’s 5’6, and the rest of Cejudo’s game, you can understand why he feels confident in his chances of beating the new champ. Further, by winning a UFC title in another division, Cejudo’s legacy would reach new, historical levels.

“Quadruple C. Olympic champ, flyweight champ, bantamweight champ, and the featherweight champion of the world. The beautiful thing about it is I know how many fans I have, and I know how many fans I have created from the people who have just doubted me. And why not? I can do it. I know I can. I’m a conqueror.”

“A lot of it depends on Uncle Dana,” he finished. “Uncle Dana said he’d never count me out again. He said ‘I’ll never doubt that kid again.’ I beat Jose Waldo, I wouldn’t mind fighting Volkanovski. I wouldn’t mind fighting that Kiwi. Drinking some kiwi juice.”

But will it happen?

It’s hard to imagine Cejudo and Volkanovki fighting anytime soon, even if they win their next bouts against Aldo and Holloway respectively. There are plenty of contenders for both men in their divisions. At 135, there’s Aljamain Sterling, Dominick Cruz, Petr Yan and Cory Sandhagen. At 145, there’s Chan Sung Jung, Zabit Magomedsharipov and Yair Rodriguez.

So, chances are Cejudo will need to defend the belt at 135 several times, before a shot at the 145 crown is tabled.

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