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Former UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz has officially announced his retirement from mixed martial arts after being forced to withdraw from his scheduled fight against Rob Font at UFC Seattle due to injury. The bout was set to mark Cruz’s return to the Octagon after more than two years on the sidelines, but persistent health issues have once again derailed his plans.
Cruz, a former WEC and UFC bantamweight champion, is widely considered one of the greatest bantamweights in MMA history. His unique footwork, high fight IQ, and dominant performances made him a legend in the sport. However, injuries plagued his career, forcing him to endure long periods of inactivity. Over the years, he has undergone multiple surgeries, including procedures for a torn ACL, a torn groin muscle, a broken arm, and most recently, two shoulder dislocations. These setbacks ultimately prevented him from stepping into the cage one last time.
One of the biggest blows to Cruz’s career came in 2014 when he was forced to vacate his UFC bantamweight title after being sidelined for nearly three years. However, in a remarkable comeback, he reclaimed the championship in 2016, becoming the first two-time bantamweight champion in UFC history. Despite his resilience and determination, injuries continued to take their toll.
Cruz last competed at UFC San Diego in 2022, where he suffered a knockout loss to Marlon “Chito” Vera. With a professional record of 24-4, he leaves behind a legacy defined by his technical brilliance, championship reigns, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Reflecting on his career, Cruz acknowledged that while injuries have shaped his journey, they will not define his legacy. “The Dominator” walks away from the sport as one of the most respected fighters in MMA history.