Bantamweight Dominick Cruz to return vs. Jimmie Rivera at UFC 219

[La Paix]

Former bantamweight champion Dominick Cruzwill return from a one-year layoff to face Jimmie Rivera at UFC 219 on Dec. 30 in Las Vegas.

UFC officials announced the 135-pound matchup on Wednesday. UFC 219 will take place at T-Mobile Arena.

Cruz (22-2) hasn't fought since he surrendered the title to Cody Garbrandt in a decision loss in December. The 32-year-old was limited to just one appearance between 2012 and 2015 due to injuries but enjoyed an active, three-fight campaign in 2016.

Ex-champ Cruz to return vs. Rivera at UFC 219

 

[sparkuri]

I like Jimmie Rivera in this fight.
I don't like him to win, but I like that he's in it.

 

[Nemo?]

Glad to see him back on the horse.... Curious to see if his game changes again.

Dominic is a man obsessed.

 

[BrunoMcGyver]

I've been impressed by Rivera..Definitely not counting him out.

 

[Freeloading Rusty]

Cruz all day.

 

[Drake]

The Dominator returns! Hate that he's waited a year after fighting three times in 2016 but I guess it could be good to not overdue it & also strategically. Either way, ready for him to get back in action. Last time we saw three round Dom he almost killed a man...

Cruz RD1 (T)KO!!!

Spoiler

Cruz Bless!!!

 

[Robbie Hart]

Cruz by verbal submission

 

[Rambo John J]

so many injuries