LAS VEGAS — Don’t call T.J. Dillashaw the former UFC bantamweight champion. Dominick Cruz has the belt, but Dillashaw insists it’s his.
And he wants it.
“I’m the champion in the bantamweight division. That’s my belt,” Dillashaw, the top-ranked contender, said Saturday night after his unanimous decision win over No. 3 contender Raphael Assuncao at UFC 200. “Cruz knows I won that fight — I want my belt back.
“I’m coming for that title. He better not be trying out for ‘Dancing With The Stars’ again because I’m coming for you, Dominick. A title fight is next. Nothing but a title fight.”
Boston fans will remember that Dillashaw lost a split decision to Cruz on Jan. 17 at TD Garden. Dillashaw immediately contested the result and has continued to do so while preparing for the bout against Assuncao.
Dillashaw’s win Saturday sets up the real possibility of a rematch with Cruz and the chance to take back what he believes is his.
Thumbnail photo via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
