Dominick Cruz vs Urijah Faber — Fight recap

Dominick Cruz defeated Urijah Faber via unanimous decision after five rounds on July 2, 2011, in a dominant striking performance that showcased superior volume and accuracy. Cruz landed 90 significant strikes at a 37% clip compared to Faber's 50 at 29%, while also controlling the cage with 2:18 of control time against Faber's 0:45.

Cruz's wrestling proved effective as well, securing 4 of 13 takedown attempts at 30% efficiency, though Faber managed only 1 of 5. The bantamweight title fight was decided by Cruz's relentless pace and precision work to the head, where he connected on 50 of 171 strikes.

This victory reinforced Cruz's position as the division's elite striker and tactician, while Faber faced questions about his ability to overcome Cruz's evolving skillset.