UFC's Flyweight Division: Rethinking Safe Paths Post-Henry Cejudo

The UFC's flyweight division has seen a significant shift in recent activities. With only one flyweight fight in the past 11 events, many are questioning the future of this division. Is the UFC considering a gradual phasing out of the flyweight division or simply maintaining it to fill upcoming cards with undercard material?

Henry Cejudo's Impact on the Division

Henry Cejudo, the reigning bantamweight champion, brings a unique perspective to the debate. While he holds the Bantamweight title, his involvement in the flyweight division posed a challenge: intensive weight cutting and the strain it put on his body. At 32 years old, Cejudo is already past his prime, and a move away from the flyweight division might suit him best. His champion's paychecks will remain intact, and he can focus on retaining his Bantamweight title.

However, the removal of the flyweight division would mean a significant change for Cejudo. His career capitalized on the excitement of the weight class, and his performances against top contenders like Demitrious Johnson generated immense interest. But can the UFC continue to rely on flyweight fights to fill card gaps without a champion like Cejudo?

The Recurrence of Flyweight Interest

The flyweight division faces a unique challenge. Even with a legendary champion like Demitrious Johnson, interest in the division has waned. The high-profile bantamweight division, which Johnson also holds, garnered more attention due to the pairings and the draw of seeing two Bantamweight champions compete. Meanwhile, the UFC has struggled to promote fight cards without a flyweight standout.

The return of Urijah Faber, a charismatic and skilled flyweight, revitalizes interest in the division. Faber's personality and skill draw audiences, unlike many lesser-known flyweights. This highlights the importance of personal charisma in maintaining interest in a division.

Criticisms and Future Outlook

Henry Cejudo, while an exceptional champion, also commands some criticism. His bragging and 'rubbish' comments, though entertaining, do not necessarily garner respect from fans. Instead, they may actually generate fewer buyers for pay-per-view events. The UFC's reliance on money over talent is a recurring theme, with the flyweight division often serving as a waterfall for discarded talent. This trend is unsustainable and raises questions about the division's future in the UFC.

However, the flyweight division's safety is not solely dependent on one fighter. The presence of Urijah Faber and other talented fighters ensures that there will always be potential for compelling matchups that attract fans. While the division may not see the same level of intense competition, it does offer a steady source of entertainment and fan engagement.

In conclusion, the future of the UFC's flyweight division is in flux. Despite questions surrounding its sustainability, the division remains safe for the moment due to the return of Urijah Faber and the charismatic fighting style that draws audiences. As long as the UFC invests in developing strong fights and fighters, the flyweight division can continue to thrive, even without the influence of a top champion like Henry Cejudo.