Dominick Rogelio Cruz[7] (born March 9, 1985) is an American former professional mixed martial artist, sports analyst and color commentator.

Cruz is noted for his unorthodox movement, powerful wrestling base, quick striking, and his tendency to attack from angles in a fashion unlike any other fighter on the UFC roster.

Numerous media outlets called this victory the greatest comeback story in MMA history.

[15][16] After an injury that came in his senior year, he lost the opportunity of receiving a scholarship to wrestle at the University of Northern Colorado.

[17] Cruz worked as a customer service representative at Lowe's, and was studying to be a firefighter at community college before becoming a full time fighter.

[18] Cruz began his professional mixed martial arts (MMA) career in 2005, competing in the Rage in the Cage and Total Combat organizations.

[26] Riding a four-fight win streak, Cruz was presented with a title shot against the reigning WEC Bantamweight Champion Brian Bowles.

[27] Cruz won the bout via TKO after Bowles was unable to continue after the second round after breaking his hand.

[30] The bout was a rematch of their contest at WEC 42, in which Cruz handed Benavidez his first career loss, via decision.

[43] On December 3, 2012, it was revealed that Cruz underwent another ACL surgery after his body rejected one from a cadaver, with an expected recovery time of six to nine months.

[46] After nearly three years away from the sport due to injuries, Cruz returned to the octagon on September 27, 2014, at UFC 178 where he faced Takeya Mizugaki.

[49] At the post-fight press conference, Dana White confirmed that Cruz's next fight would be for the Bantamweight Championship against T.J. Dillashaw.

[10][11] To complete their trilogy, Cruz defended his title against Urijah Faber on June 4, 2016, at UFC 199.

[55] Months later, on The Joe Rogan Experience, Cruz revealed that he was plagued by plantar fascia tendinitis throughout training camp that made it difficult for him to walk at times.

[70] However, Cruz withdrew from the fight due to a shoulder injury, and announced his retirement from competition.

[71][72] Considered to be one of the best MMA fighters of his generation, Cruz combines constant lateral motion with precise, in-and-out striking.