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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
UFC Bantamweight Champ T.J. Dillashaw was happy to see former Champ Dominick Cruz get back to action last weekend at UFC 178. However, he took exception to Cruz's post-fight comments, and it's given him a little extra motivation into his next title defense.
In a comment relayed by Ariel Helwani on UFC Tonight on Wednesday, Dillashaw made clear how unappreciated Cruz's "Alpha Fails" line was.
"I thought he looked good, and I am happy for him to be able to return," Dillashaw said. "I thought his Alpha Fail line was a little uncalled for since I've showed him nothing but respect, but I'd be happy to put him back in retirement."
Penick's Analysis: Cruz's history with Team Alpha Male adds another layer to him returning for another title fight. Urijah Faber is 1-1 against Cruz, Joseph Benavidez lost twice, Faber lost twice to Renan Barao, and here's Dillashaw who has a chance to beat Cruz after stopping Barao. He's the young Champion hoping to establish himself against the old guard, and Cruz has to show he can absolutely compete with Dillashaw at this stage. It sure seems like he'll be able to do that, but until we see it happen, the Champ's going to believe he'll send Cruz out of the conversation.
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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