Dominick Cruz and Renan Barao have separated themselves as the two best bantamweights in the world.
Unfortunately, Cruz may never be the same fighter he once was, having been out of action for 20 months due to knee injuries. When he returns, Cruz will likely have a chance to reclaim his undisputed crown, but that won’t be easy to do against Barao after such a long period of inactivity.
In Cruz’s absence, Barao has won the interim bantamweight title and has his sights set on defending it until his fellow champion returns to the Octagon. Already, Barao beat Michael McDonald to retain the belt, and the Brazilian is campaigning for a previously scheduled bout with Eddie Wineland to be booked again soon.
Since Cruz and Barao aren’t able to settle all disputes right now, we are left to speculate about who the best 135-pound fighter truly is. While we’re already fantasizing, why not dream up a fighter capable of dethroning both Cruz and Barao?
By combining assets from the best UFC bantamweights, let’s create the ultimate 135-pound fighting machine.