‘Everyone needs to take responsibility… including Dana White’: Henry Cejudo speaks out about UFC’s ongoing eye poke issue

Henry Cejudo is preparing for his final fight at UFC 323, facing Payton Talbott in Las Vegas, and he wants stricter enforcement against eye pokes in the sport. This fight marks his first return since his loss to Song Yadong in February at UFC Seattle, where a severe eye poke led to a technical decision.

Eye pokes have repeatedly interrupted fights this year, often with minimal penalties. Cejudo expressed his frustration during a Tuesday media session:

Everyone needs to take responsibility Dana White, the Nevada State Athletic Commission, the referees. Make a decision and enforce it. This is unacceptable. If Im being warned, then Ill respond. Everyone has to step up and make the rules count.

One notable incident occurred at UFC 321 when Ciryl Gane poked Tom Aspinalls eye in a heavyweight title match, forcing a stoppage and leaving Aspinall with lasting injuries. Cejudo stresses that enforcing rules is not just about fairness but also fighter safety.

Someone could seriously lose an eye, Cejudo said. Fighters like Bisping and others have permanent damage. Its not just my experience others, like Bethe Correia, have also suffered eye injuries. This needs immediate action. If people arent held accountable, the consequences could be severe. Everyone, including Dana White, must step up.

Author: Chloe Ramirez