Fri Dec 05 04:50:00 UTC 2025: Headline: Cejudo Demands Immediate Action on Eye Pokes Ahead of UFC 323 Finale
Las Vegas, NV – Former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo is calling for significant changes to the enforcement of eye poke rules in the UFC, citing concerns for fighter safety and the integrity of the sport. Cejudo’s plea comes ahead of his scheduled bout against Payton Talbott at UFC 323, which he has declared will be his final fight.
Cejudo’s frustration stems from a perceived lack of accountability and inconsistent officiating regarding eye pokes. He directly referenced his recent loss to Song Yadong, which was decided by a technical decision after an eye poke severely hampered his vision. He also alluded to other instances, such as Tom Aspinall’s recent eye injury at UFC 321, emphasizing the potential for career-altering damage.
“Everybody needs to man up,” Cejudo stated emphatically during a media scrum. “Dana White, the Nevada State Athletic Commission, the referees… make a f*cking decision, man. That’s bullshit.”
Cejudo argued that the current system of warnings is insufficient and could even incentivize fighters to exploit the rules. He fears that without stricter enforcement, fighters could suffer permanent vision loss and lasting injuries.
“Dude, somebody could lose an eye,” he warned, pointing to the long-term effects on fighters like Michael Bisping and Bethe Correia. He urged all stakeholders, including UFC President Dana White, to take immediate action to protect fighters.
First Piper 