Former UFC bantamweight champion Cruz retires
Former UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz has retired following two shoulder dislocations in eight months.
The 39-year-old American had two UFC title reigns across a distinguished career, defending the belt three times.
Cruz was set to face Rob Font later this month in his final fight but pulled out of the bout because of injury.
In a post on Instagram, Cruz thanked the UFC and fans for an "unforgettable journey".
"To the fans worldwide, I have poured every ounce of myself into this sport for the last 25 years. I was really hopeful for one final fight but unfortunately, two shoulder dislocations in eight months calls an end to this guy's career," he said.
"I gave everything I had and put it into preparation and training for this fight -focusing on my cardio and my body for the past year. But sometimes, the body just doesn't co-operate.
"This sport has been everything to me - it's helped to shape who l am. Thank you to the UFC for building this platform and paving the way for fighters like myself and so many others."
Cruz beat Scott Jorgensen for the inaugural UFC bantamweight title in 2010, defending the belt twice before having to vacate through injury.
He regained the title from TJ Dillashaw in 2016 and made one more defence against Urijah Faber before defeat by Cody Garbrandt.
Cruz, who also works as part of the UFC broadcast team, leaves the sport having won 24 of his 28 fights.
"The UFC broke barriers to set the stage not just for us as fighters. Also for every MMA sports organisation that followed them across the bridge created throughout politics in order to allow our sport to take place in the United States and now the world," added Cruz.
"I am incredibly grateful to everyone who booked tickets, hotels, and flights to support me. Thank you all for being there through every moment, every victory, and every challenge.
"You've made this journey unforgettable. Thank you for the love and support. I will carry it with me always. With love, Dominick."
