Henry Cejudo says he will retire if he isn’t paid enough: I’m in this game for money, not belts

Henry Cejudo deserves more money after everything he has achieved in the UFC.

By: Harry Davies | 4 years
Henry Cejudo says he will retire if he isn’t paid enough: I’m in this game for money, not belts
Henry Cejudo wanted more money after winning two UFC titles. | Jerry Lai / USA TODAY Network, IMAGO

Despite being the UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion, Henry Cejudo says the belts no longer matter to him, and instead he wants more money from the UFC.

Cejudo (15-2) is currently sidelined with after undergoing shoulder surgery following his bantamweight title win against Marlon Moraes in June. “The Messenger” begun 2019 with a first-round KO of T.J. Dillashaw, who later tested positive for EPO and was suspended by USADA for two years.

Talking recently to MMA Fighting, Cejudo said that he wants more money from the UFC, and if he doesn’t get it he is prepared to walk away from the sport.

UFC double-champ Henry Cejudo threatens to retire if not paid better

“I’m in this game for 100 percent money. I’m not in this for another championship. I’ve accomplished everything that I’ve wanted to accomplish. There’s only one thing that’s missing. That’s a whole bunch of zeroes behind me competing and entertaining a bunch of people. That’s it,” Cejudo said. “I’m okay with walking away. I’m okay with leaving the sport if I have to.” (Transcription via BJ Penn)

The former Olympic gold medalist Henry Cejudo, who turns 33 next year, says he is very grateful for what the UFC has done for him during his five years in the promotion, but if he and UFC president Dana White can’t come to an agreement, then it can be up to the “silver and bronze medalists” to fight for the titles.

“I do have a number in mind, but that’s between me and my boss. Like I said before, I respect Dana White, I respect what they’ve done, the organization. I’m very grateful for what they’ve done and everything, but this is a financial thing for me. If we just can’t come to terms, then best of luck to both divisions, and a bunch of silver medalists and bronze medalists can fight for the belts.”

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Harry Davies
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