Heartbreaking Loss For Dillashaw

Boston, CA — In a split decision, Angels Camp native TJ Dillashaw lost his UFC bantamweight title.

Sunday night’s UFC 81 from Boston was broadcast live nationally on Fox Sports 1. Domenick Cruz of San Diego was declared the winner with all three of the judges scoring it differently. The final result was Cruz, 48-47, 46-49 and 49-46. When the final bell rang, Dillashaw thought he was the winner. At the press conference afterwards, he said, “I do feel like I won the fight…just pressure alone…and controlling the octagon…and landing the bigger strikes.”

Dillashaw added, “It’s tough man, it is a tough one to take.”

Cruz had previously held the UFC bantamweight title up until 2014 when he was forced to relinquish it due to a series of injuries, including both a torn groin and ACL that prevented him from fighting. Last night’s win was a major comeback in the career of the former, and now current, champion.

Dillashaw had been the bantamweight champion since May of 2014 when he upset Renan Barao. Dillashaw quickly became the toast of Angels Camp, and the following July 20th, the Mayor of Angels Camp declared it “TJ Dillashaw Day” during a homecoming celebration.