A Career Halted by Injuries
Dominick Cruz’s decision to retire from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) may have been influenced by the harsh realities of his body’s wear and tear, but it’s a decision that was not made lightly. Cruz, a two-time UFC bantamweight champion and future Hall of Fame inductee, had a storied career spanning 20 years, marked by incredible skill and unfortunate injuries. The announcement of his retirement came as a surprise, especially since it forced him out of a potential final bout against Rob Font, scheduled for UFC Seattle on February 22. In a candid interview on The Anik & Florian Podcast, Cruz detailed the events leading to his decision, highlighting the physical challenges he faced and the respect he has for the sport and his opponents.
A Painful Realization
Cruz’s journey to this decision began with a shoulder dislocation about eight weeks before his recent injury. While the initial dislocation was a sharp, excruciating pain, it only lasted a few minutes and his shoulder reset quickly. This incident, however, set the stage for a more severe one. Despite rigorous rehabilitation, Cruz’s shoulder dislocated again, this time while he was drilling a basic wrestling technique. The technique, which he had performed countless times, involved getting up from half guard, reaching for a single leg, and using his elbow to post. The moment he put his elbow down, his shoulder shot out and stayed dislocated, causing severe and prolonged pain. His arm even turned blue, a sign that the injury was affecting his circulation. Cruz’s description of the ordeal was a stark reminder of the toll the sport can take on a fighter’s body.
Weighing the Risks
The second dislocation was a turning point for Cruz. The pain scale, he says, was a 20 out of 10, and it was enough to change his perspective. He had already experienced tendon damage, which made his shoulder more susceptible to dislocation. The fact that it happened twice within six to eight months was a clear sign that his shoulder was working against him. Cruz, who will be 40 in March, recognized that his long-term health was more important than chasing a storybook ending to his career. He had initially felt good and fast, and the idea of fighting Font seemed like a solid way to cap off his 24-fight professional career with 25 wins, a number that held sentimental value. However, the risks were too high, and the potential rewards were not enough to justify the pain and risk of further injury.
The Price of Pursuit
Cruz admits that if the financial offer had been significantly higher, he might have considered making the trip to Seattle and fighting with a compromised shoulder. "It’s still painful, I have a lot of rehab to do, but is that worth more than what I’m getting paid for this last fight? Definitely," he said. Cruz’s pragmatism is evident here; he understands the value of his body and the importance of preserving it. The sport has given him a lot, but the toll on his physical well-being was becoming too great. He was forced to weigh the potential glory of one more win against the very real possibility of serious, long-term damage.
Transitioning to Coaching
While Cruz is stepping away from the octagon, he’s not entirely leaving the world of MMA. He has been actively involved in coaching and training up-and-coming fighters, particularly in Mexico City, where he has been working with Eric Del Fierro. The gym has become a second home for Cruz, and the enthusiasm and drive of the young fighters have inspired him to continue in some capacity. "There’s 25 South American fighters and they’re trying to get as many Mexican fighters as they can and training with them over the past year, I’ve learned so much from the young guys, just the hunger in their eyes and how bad they want it, and I can see my young self in them," he said. Cruz finds a renewed sense of purpose in mentoring the next generation, which keeps him engaged and connected to the sport he loves.
A Legacy of Excellence
Cruzi’s legacy is secure, and his retirement is a testament to his commitment to his health and well-being. His career, while abbreviated by injuries, is one of the most impressive in UFC history. Known for his unorthodox style and exceptional speed, Cruz has consistently been regarded as one of the best bantamweights of all time. His influence extends beyond his record; he has inspired countless fighters and fans with his resilience and dedication. As he moves into the next chapter of his life, whether it’s full-time coaching or something else, Cruz remains a respected and beloved figure in the MMA community. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and risks fighters face, and the importance of knowing when to step away gracefully.
