Aside from being one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) flyweight champion, Demetrious Johnson, is also one of the better athletes in all of mixed martial arts (MMA).
With his unmatched speed, quickness, and agility, “Mighty Mouse” has used his abilities to rack up nine straight wins inside the Octagon, including seven consecutive title defenses.
But as he gears up to face Henry Cejudo in the co-main event of UFC 197 on April 23, 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada, he’ll be facing another high-caliber athlete, as Cejudo made his mark in the wrestling world by winning the gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games.
When you couple that with what Henry says is underrated striking, Cejudo believes he is the better athlete of the two. And he will prove that come fight night by knocking out the only 125-pound champion UFC has ever known.
“He’s good in every area, transitions very well and he understands distance, so it’s not so much about speed. The Mouse understands distance. He knows style of fights. But, I am a student of this game and I will fight people accordingly. I have no pride whatsoever. I will fight him accordingly. I do believe I am stronger, I hit harder and I am a better athlete.”
While Cejudo knows he could be in for a 25-minute fight, the wrestling powerhouse says he’s going in looking for — and expecting — a knockout victory.
“Absolutely (expecting to to knock him out). I am ready for a five-round fight, but I believe I can. He’s going to feel it man. It’s like Holly Holm told Ronda Rousey, the difference between her and every other girl she fought is the simply answer that I’m a different athlete. I feel like this is how I feel. I’m a different athlete, breed, and you see that and he will feel it. He’s fought tough competition, and he lost to Dominick Cruz. But, our styles are going to mesh very well. He’s going to run, kick my front leg or take me down. I doubt he’ll try to pressure me. But, were ready for every angle.”
Cejudo began his undefeated (10-0, 4-0 UFC) MMA career with four straight knockout wins. His last six, however, have all come via decision, including his first four wins inside the Octagon.
Johnson, meanwhile, has proven to be one of the toughest fighters to hit, as his quickness seems to be one of his best allies inside the cage.
That said, anyone think Cejudo has the chops to do the unthinkable and put “Mighty Mouse” to sleep?