Former UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz is determined to leave his mark on the sport one last time. Despite facing significant challenges in recent years, Cruz, now 39, recently shared his aspirations with TMZ Sports for a triumphant return to the UFC Octagon. During a visit to the UFC Performance Institute in Mexico City, he expressed his ambition to prepare himself for a final fight, which he describes as his “last dance.” This sentiment of seizing one last opportunity illustrates the fighter’s unyielding passion for the sport and his relentless pursuit of greatness.
Cruz’s competitive spirit is no surprise, especially given his distinguished career record of 24 wins and only 4 losses. Early in his career, he faced and defeated notable fighters like Urijah Faber, T.J. Dillashaw, and Demetrious Johnson. These victories not only etched his name in the history books but also solidified his legacy as one of the top bantamweights of all time. However, his last appearance in the Octagon was far from an ideal conclusion. A fourth-round knockout by Marlon Vera in 2022 left a lingering desire in Cruz to demonstrate that he still possesses the skills and resilience necessary to compete at a high level.
While Cruz remains optimistic about his prospects, he acknowledges that the landscape of the bantamweight division has become increasingly competitive. “There are some guys out there who looked really good; that whole division is stacked,” he noted. This recognition of the evolving competition highlights the challenges he faces as he seeks to stake his claim to one last fight. Unfortunately, his initial hopes of competing in 2023 were dashed by ongoing negotiations and the complexities of arranging a matchup. According to Cruz, early 2025 now appears to be a more realistic timeframe for his anticipated return.
Cruz’s longing for a final fight encapsulates the spirit of combat sports: the combination of resilience, ambition, and the desire to confront one’s limits. “I want one last dance in me,” he states passionately, hinting at not only the immediate thrill of a fight but also the emotional journey that comes with it. This desire to put on the gloves again is not solely about winning, but rather about testing himself against formidable opponents in a sport he loves deeply. It is a powerful reminder of why athletes compete — not just for titles, but also for the joy of the sport and the challenges it brings.
As Dominick Cruz prepares for what he hopes will be his final bout, he embodies the resiliency that defines champions. With a desire to enjoy the fight as much as the outcome, he seeks not only to add to his legacy but to find fulfillment in the struggle and triumph that MMA offers. Regardless of the outcome, Cruz’s journey serves as an inspiration, illustrating that the heart of a fighter beats on, undeterred by age or past challenges. His story highlights the beauty of sports — the relentless pursuit of passion, even in the face of adversity.