Henry Cejudo’s status as an underdog for his UFC 323 fight with Payton Talbott has caused a stir among fight fans and analysts. Delving into the circumstances surrounding this matchup highlights the forces shaping the line: recent form and momentum
Henry Cejudo vs. Payton Talbott Odds
Since fight week, reputable sportsbooks have listed Henry Cejudo as a +225 underdog, with Talbott as the -275 favorite to win their bantamweight fight. This gap is significant, especially considering Cejudo’s credentials as a former two-division UFC champion and Olympic gold medalist. The odds with https://Lizaro.com/nz/ have been consistent throughout the fight week.
Cejudo enters UFC 323 after a series of setbacks. Since returning from retirement in 2023, he has gone winless, snapping a three-fight losing streak. His last fight was a technical decision loss after an eye poke stopped his fight against Song Yadong. Losses to Merab Dvalishvili and Aljamain Sterling preceded that, showing difficulties in adapting after his dismissal and contributing to skepticism over his form.
Cejudo’s age (38) is another consideration. Lighter weight classes tend to favor youth and athleticism, and the impact of years spent in high-level competition can be felt more acutely against emerging talents like Talbott. At just 27 years old, Talbott is tall for the bantamweight at 6-foot-4 with a reach of about 70 inches, compared to Cejudo’s 6-foot-4 frame and 67-68 inch reach.
Talbott bounced back from his first loss (a decision to Raoni Barcelos) with a solid win over Felipe Lima. Previously, he has scored quick finishes, most memorably a 19-second KO of Yanis Ghemmouri. His youth, trajectory and lack of mileage compared to Cejudo’s wear and tear contribute to bettors seeing him as more likely to impose his game over three rounds.
Cejudo’s key to victory is his wrestling, historically among the best in the sport. If he can consistently close distance, secure takedowns and control Talbott on the mat, the fight could swing in his favor. However, Talbott’s recent improvements in takedown defense and scrambling, combined with his reach and power, complicate this path. If Talbott can keep the fight standing or punish Cejudo for failed entries, analysts expect Talbott to win the striking exchanges.
The combination of Cejudo’s recent form, age and decline in production against a fresher, taller and more active Talbott has resulted in Cejudo’s rare entrance as a substantial underdog. While some experts highlight ways in which Cejudo can be upset, mainly through wrestling and experience, the consensus points to Talbott raising his hand if he can keep the fight standing and avoid Cejudo’s wrestling for an extended period of time. Although Cejudo might be a great underdog bet.
#Henry #Cejudo #underdog #Payton #Talbott #UFC