Dominick Cruz has decided to hang up his gloves.
The former UFC men’s bantamweight champion revealed his retirement from MMA competition in a heartfelt social media post. Cruz cited ongoing injuries as the reason for his decision, stating that his body was no longer able to keep up with the demands of the sport.
“I dedicated myself entirely to preparing for this fight, focusing on my fitness and training over the past year,” Cruz, 39, shared on Instagram. “But sometimes, your body just reaches its limit.”
I have poured every ounce of myself into this sport for the last 25 years. I was really hopeful for one final fight but unfortunately, two shoulder dislocations in 8 months calls an end to this guy’s career.
I gave everything I had and put it into preparation and training for this fight —focusing on my cardio and my body for the past year. But sometimes, the body just doesn’t cooperate.
The pain isn’t as bad now that my shoulder is back in place, but the second dislocation was far more complicated than the first.
This sport has been everything to me—it’s helped to shape who I am.
Thank you to the @ufc for building this platform and paving the way for fighters like myself and so many others. The UFC broke barriers to set the stage not just for us as fighters. Also for every mma sports organization that followed them across the bridge created throughout politics in order to allow our sport to take place LEGALLY in the United States and now the world.
I am incredibly grateful to everyone who booked tickets, hotels, and flights to support me. Thank you all for being there through every moment, every victory, and every challenge. You’ve made this journey unforgettable. Thank you for the love and support. I will carry it with me always.
Cruz’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable 20-year career in MMA, predominantly spent in the UFC. He began his professional journey in Arizona in 2005, eventually rising to prominence in the WEC organization before transitioning to the UFC.
With a career record of 24-4, Cruz faced setbacks early on but persevered to become a two-time UFC bantamweight champion. Known for his unique fighting style that combined striking and wrestling, Cruz captivated fans with his agility and skill in the octagon.
Cruz faced numerous obstacles throughout his career, including recurring injuries that sidelined him for extended periods. Despite these challenges, he made a triumphant return in 2014 and reclaimed the bantamweight title in 2016.
His legacy extends beyond the octagon, as Cruz has become a prominent figure in UFC broadcasts, sharing his insights and opinions with fans worldwide. While his retirement marks the end of an era in MMA, Cruz’s impact on the sport and its community will endure.
For those who followed Cruz’s journey, his tenacity, skill, and unwavering spirit will always be remembered as hallmarks of a true champion.