Dominick Cruz vs TJ Dillashaw — Fight recap

Dominick Cruz earned a split decision victory over TJ Dillashaw in their UFC bantamweight title rematch on January 17, 2016, winning all five rounds on two scorecards. Cruz landed 112 significant strikes at 37 percent accuracy while controlling the striking exchanges with superior volume and precision, particularly to the head where he connected on 97 of 282 attempts.

Dillashaw managed 109 significant strikes at just 26 percent efficiency despite throwing 408 total strikes, indicating less effective shot selection throughout the bout. Cruz's wrestling proved decisive in the clinch and on the feet, securing 4 of 11 takedown attempts at 36 percent while Dillashaw converted only 1 of 8 attempts.

The veteran Cruz's footwork and distance management frustrated Dillashaw's typically aggressive approach, keeping the challenger at range and controlling the pace despite being outstruck in total volume. The victory solidified Cruz's position atop the division and set up potential superfights while raising questions about Dillashaw's path forward in the competitive 135-pound ranks.