Degradation of proton exchange membrane (PEM) due to free radicals often decreases the overall performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). The incorporation of antioxidative additives into the polymer matrix has been widely exploited to mitigate oxidative degradation but is still challenging. Herein, butylsulfonated poly(arylene)(SAFPAE) was synthesized by polycondensation followed by nucleophilic substitution and highly crystalline CeO2-TiC filler was prepared by simple hydrothermal process. SAFPAE alleviates the problematic characteristics of proton-exchange membranes (PEMs) whereas CeO2 scavenges free radicals and TiC improves tensile strength. Variable weight ratios of CeO2-TiC were blended into the SAFPAE matrix to study its physicochemical, and electrochemical properties. The random distribution of CeO2-TiC in the SAFPAE matrix enhanced thermal and mechanical strength and increased water absorption, ion exchange capacity, as well as proton conductivity. Specifically, SAFPAE/CeO2-TiC (1.0wt%) exhibited a current output of 0.18Acm−2 and a power output of 0.087 Wcm−2 at 20% RH and 60°C. It also experienced a degradation of 0.145mVh-1 over 1100hours of operation. Under operating conditions of RH 20% and 60°C, PEMFCs with an SAFPAE/CeO2-TiC (1.0wt%) membrane exhibited significantly improved performance and enhanced durability compared to PEMFCs with pure SAFPAE and without sacrificing their cell performance.