Former UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz’s highly anticipated return to the Octagon has hit an unexpected snag, leaving fans and fellow fighters anticipating what comes next. Cruz was set to face Rob Font in a main card fight at UFC Fight Night 252, scheduled for February 22 in Seattle. The excitement surrounding this matchup was palpable, as it marked what would have been Cruz’s first fight in over two and a half years. However, MMA Junkie has confirmed that an unspecified injury has forced Cruz to withdraw from the bout, raising questions about the longevity of his career and the future of his division.
Cruz, 39, has not fought since his loss to Marlon Vera in August 2022, a setback that ended with a fourth-round knockout. This long layoff and then the injury serve as worrisome signs for a fighter who has experienced a tumultuous career riddled with injuries. The nature of Cruz’s injury has not been disclosed, which adds an element of uncertainty to his future. Will he be able to recover in a timely manner to compete again, or is this the latest in a series of setbacks for the veteran?
While Cruz’s injury is detrimental to his own career trajectory, the implications also extend to Rob Font, who was poised to regain momentum with this fight. Font’s last outing—a unanimous decision win over Kyler Phillips in October—helped him break a disappointing two-fight losing streak. Now, with Cruz out, the UFC must scramble to find a replacement fighter who can step into the Octagon and keep Font on the card.
Rob Font’s readiness for this fight and his need for a notable opponent are crucial. As a seasoned competitor in the bantamweight division, he is keen to reclaim his status among the top contenders. The UFC’s decision to quickly find a replacement reveals the ongoing balancing act within any fight card, where injuries can disrupt the carefully laid plans of not just the fighters but also the organization at large.
The organization has a precedent for dealing with fighter withdrawals, and fans can expect adjustments to the lineup for UFC Fight Night 252 as they look for a suitable opponent for Font. As it stands, the event will still feature a headliner bout between Henry Cejudo and Song Yadong, which remains a highly attractive matchup in the bantamweight division.
In light of Cruz’s withdrawal, there will be added attention to the overall card—will the UFC opt for another noteworthy athlete to face Font? Or might they take a chance on a rising star looking to prove themselves? In either scenario, the handling of this situation will be pivotal in shaping the narrative leading up to UFC Fight Night 252.
Coming off a career marred by injuries, Cruz’s absence is felt not only personally but across the bantamweight landscape, where he was once an iconic figure. Whether he can bounce back and redefine his legacy in the sport will depend on his recovery and ability to find opportunities in what is becoming an increasingly competitive division.