The UFC Fight Night: Kape vs. Almabayev broadcast briefly paused as the promotion paid tribute to a true legend of the sport. After an injury forced him out of his final fight against Rob Font last month, the iconic Dominick Cruz announced his retirement from MMA. A two-time bantamweight champion, Cruz is widely regarded as one of the most skilled and influential fighters in UFC history.
However, many fans were disappointed that his farewell occurred at the Apex rather than in a packed arena filled with roaring supporters.
UFC Honors Dominick Cruz with Emotional Tribute at Vegas 103
During UFC Vegas 103, Jon Anik stepped into the octagon to momentarily halt the action and honour the former champion and future Hall of Famer, Dominick Cruz. Anik praised Cruz’s unique style, saying, “His style may be replicated, but it will never be duplicated.” He added, “Cruzzy did it his way like Frank Sinatra, and his legacy is entrenched as one of the best of all time.”
Cruz, who retires with a 24-4 professional record, was moved by the heartfelt video package, which not only showcased his many UFC accomplishments but also highlighted his impact on the next generation of fighters.
“Ah man, never ready for that—love you guys, thank you… All I can say is, I’m speechless… It definitely did strike a nerve. I really appreciate the love.”
While the tribute and Anik’s words were heartfelt and well-deserved. Some fans were divided over the choice to honour Cruz at The Apex. This was rather than in front of 18,000+ fans in a packed arena.
Fans Disappointed as Cruz’s Tribute Takes Place at The Apex Instead of a Packed Arena
There’s no doubt that Dominick Cruz will soon be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame and that his tribute video was well-deserved. The issue lies in where it happened.
Airing the tribute at UFC Vegas 103 made sense, as it was Cruz’s first time back since his retirement. However, a fighter of his stature deserved a standing ovation from thousands, not just a few hundred at “the warehouse of dreams.”
Fans took to X to express their disappointment:
“Beautiful retirement send-off video for the legend Dominick Cruz. But come on, it would’ve been so much better in front of thousands of fight fans, not the Apex. Cruz deserves better.”
“Dominick Cruz tribute video in the Apex seems hella disrespectful.”
“This tribute to Cruz should not be taking place at the Apex.”
“I get there’s a limited schedule, but Cruz deserved a 16,000-strong crowd cheering him on. Why not save it for UFC 313?”
“Kind of lame that they’re giving Cruz a tribute at a Fight Night. Whether you like him or not, he deserves recognition at a numbered event.”
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
