Quite possibly the greatest 135-pounder of all time, Cruz has seen his brilliant career repeatedly derailed by a series of injuries, completely robbing him of the legendary status that he'd no doubt enjoy had his knees not been constructed out of rubber bands and popsicle sticks.
In 2021, Cruz fought more than once in a year for the first time since 2016. He notched back-to-back decision victories over Casey Kenney and Pedro Munhoz.
The fifth-ranked bantamweight plying his trade in the UFC, Vera is slowly establishing himself among the division's elite. He scored recent wins over Davey Grant, Frankie Edgar, and Rob Font as he continues a push toward a potential title shot.