UFC Journey Part One: Marlon Vera vs. Dominick Cruz [FULL EPISODE] | ESPN MMA

UFC Journey shows the lives of Marlon Vera and Dominick Cruz as they prepare for their main event fight at UFC Fight Night in San Diego.
#UFC #UFCSanDiego
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[@jayfiggs4656]

Can we all agree that this was so much more better than the usual UFC countdown with that silly narrator trying to over exaggerate a fight card? Silence in this is golden

[@sallgoodman2323]

It's a much needed change of pace, I wouldn't mind more of this format for the Fight Nights. Especially an interesting fight like this one

[@larry6400]

Dominick Cruz’s evolution is inspiring - Once a young sneering, lofty champion kid thinking the world was his, the worst tragedies fell on him, trails & tribulations that we would have understood if he was completely beaten by - it would have been okay if he was defeated by that. It’s everyone’s worst nightmare. But he managed to make that furnace carve & mould him into the best human being he could be. The guy is a True Legend🙌🦾🙏💙

[@electrixm89]

very eloquent of you, definitely one of a kind in the UFC. he's always had it in him to excel in academia I feel, doctorate level the way he talks and thinks. Inspiring dude.

[@texasboy1457]

Beautifully said. Thanks for taking the time to write that.

[@barryscott9127]

Yeh annoyingly if you have the money you can get a good fix. If you with the NHS. Say good bye to your knees.

[@clientsclick]

one of my all time favorites

[@tim9231]

I can try it

[@IamNotTheAnswer]

Chito has forever won me over with him and his kids what a great moment to capture... What a great father and an amazing mindset

[@tyga454]

Every dude is like that with a family doesn’t make him any different

[@tyga454]

@Robert I don’t care for him at all tbh I don’t not like him but I also don’t like him he’s just another fighter

[@Cobyknows]

He won me over on the last ufc destined(journey) for the Rob font fight. Dude is pure class and a great guy

[@robertocortez1457]

@@tyga454 you want him to be your daddy

[@tyga454]

@@robertocortez1457 why would I want that?

[@goodxd701]

These guys deserve a lot more attention. Dominic Cruz is literally a former champion and still at the rankings

[@Sy-lm9bk]

Literally the FIRST bantamweight champ and still here

[@RMichaelHimself]

Dom and Aldo have similar storylines. Became dominant champs in the lower weights of WEC, came straight into the UFC as champs, defended it. Then lost the title. And now are both past their primes yet still winning impressive fights against top level fighters.

[@xor.rorschach]

Chito's story is cool ...but Dom story is just something else , if Dominick beats chito and show how makes it to title fight and wins again that will most iconic mma moments and story in general and we have to count him as one of the goats , dude is now fighting 3rd generation of top 5 bantamweights

[@xor.rorschach]

We have appreciate Cruz longevity in the sport , he's out here fighting 3rd generation of best bantamweights

[@mrmolloy]

Cos he has been injured or commentating half the time

[@Marcus-gx4jr]

@@mrmolloy pointless comment seeing how it didn’t make the OPs comment any less factual lmao. L

[@SanyamJain1989]

I see a lot of Dominick Cruz in Marlon Vera. However, at the end of the day, there is only one Dominick and only one Marlon. Much respect to the work of both warriors. 🙏

[@ruthlezz5161]

I love Dom's dog. He's been in a lot of UFC episodes:)

[@jakedalton6236]

This fight will be insane. No way it won’t be. Both are insane athletes and fighters.

[@genie9193]

Did you start watching UFC last week? 🙄

[@jakedalton6236]

@@genie9193 Did you take a long time coming up with that horrible joke?

[@genie9193]

@@jakedalton6236What is cruz and Vera's fighting style can you tell me?

[@JohnnytNatural]

I dunno, seems like an easy win for Chito, will look competitive but Dominick is past his prime

[@jakedalton6236]

@@JohnnytNatural We’ll see. Chito hasn’t beat the guys Dom has but this is Doms last run at the title tbh bc he is a bit older. I feel like Chito will find the knockout but if not I got Cruz by decision.

[@trinity3422]

Jason Parillo to me is the perfect coach for a mind like Chitto’s. He taught Bisping how to cool his head, focus on his skills, and become a champion.

[@zmortha12]

Every one of these style specials have been really compelling. This is one of the best ways to promote the fights.

[@CubensisEnjoyer]

A lot of fighters like to cap when they describe themselves, but you can tell both of these guys are exactly who they say they are. I think Chito Vera has the edge but it would be a pretty powerful statement if Dominick Cruz were to come out and dominate somehow. Can't wait for this match up.

[@honestlee9921]

God dang kids and your jargon

[@benmcreynolds8581]

This is so much better than the embedded series. We need this every week to draw in towards showcasing more of these athlete's.

[@domdesjardins8276]

seriously!!! Im looking for part 2 and 3 like an idiot right now. i def needed that motivation. Its 5am and now im pumped lolll

[@300blkreepin]

Jesus...Chito gave me the chills. "I just stick to plan A. Because, I'm really good at making one plan. I don't make options, its's either DO IT OR DIE." 🥶🥶🥶

[@E_T98]

I’m not going to lie…I watch legit every single one of these videos before they fight to get into the fight and I have to say this is HANDS DOWN the best one I’ve ever seen no question. Can’t even explain it. Cannot wait for this fight.

[@WylieKoyote]

So I've had 2 ACL ruptures, 2 reconstructions. He's had 3. I understand his journey and I'm a physical therapist. Worst pain I've endured is in physio. Good luck, Dom, you're an inspiration 👍💪

[@thebarrochannel]

Good for Vera. He’s happy living the American dream. Guerrero de Ecuador. And Dominick is such an avid competitor. I’m a fan of both fighters

[@1gbuzzin]

Chito got them crazy eyes 👀

[@andrewhill4365]

When chito told his kids they could only run on the grass when the was getting sprayed with water, the dad in me smiled lmao. I’m the same way with my son. I have to pay attention for him cuz he is wide open

[@iwishicouldsaveyou3954]

I'm rooting for Chito but sending respect, love and good vibes Cruz's way and wishing his Dad well.

[@markdavis8430]

We need these every week PLS ,, good luck to all on the card Lets go

[@longliveantoniovalencia9626]

Well done ESPN 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 Vamos Chito!!! 👊👊💪💪 🇪🇨

[@kanthony9154]

🇪🇨🇪🇨🇪🇨Ecuador hjp, y vamos para el mundial en diciembre 🏆🔥

[@monty1691]

this should have more views

[@bartekpodogrodzki6057]

Props again for production team. Such a great job with that.

[@chuyvee505]

Man I can watch this type of content all day if I could.. Awesome Job👌🏼

[@andrewbuckman7169]

One of those fights where u want both guys to win. Can’t wait

[@sukhdevr3489]

Na, I definitely hope Cruz wins lol.

[@andrewbuckman7169]

@@sukhdevr3489 can’t hate. Just think chito has all the momentum and is more durable against the top of the division. But again, the either way the fight goes, I’d be happy

[@Hawkfan4life88]

Exactly, I think this is make or break for Dom. If he looses i think he hangs it up

[@sukhdevr3489]

@@andrewbuckman7169 True. If Cruz wins it further solidifies how great he is, beating one of the best fighters in the division despite being 10 years past his prime.

[@langtryvlogme]

True

[@chadstacw]

He's been my favourite fighter since wec days man I love this guy!!

[@Wolf_runner12]

Would love to see more athletes talking about their injuries and rehab process! It’s so much work people have no idea

[@aleksmoran.]

big fan of chito vera, love this guy hes a very humble hungry human being

[@waalex11]

Two Powerful Minded Guys. As a fan of both, I'll hate to see either lose.

[@notapstrap]

These UFC Journey's are inspiring!🙏💯

[@slowpipe3687]

These series are awesomeee such an inspiration this is

[@tommieseiber804]

Vera becoming on of my favorite fighter's, Cruz is already got a legacy and lot's of respect! This is gonna be a FIGHT!!

[@loyisolujabe4557]

BEEN waiting for part 2

[@TheChessNeck]

"It's either do it, or die" wow Chito is a fun guy to watch. Can't wait for this fight

[@waalex11]

I wish these exclusive series and interviews of ESPN+ would be available for Non-US viewers.

[@jmz2144]

Great content, I want more!

[@lovmovement8477]

Great show ! Love both these guys

[@jackpoole6916]

Coaches are always clueless “chito has beaten better fighters than Cruz” I don’t think so lmao that’s the bantamweight goat you’re talking about🤣

[@silba-lo4020]

Oh man, seeing Cruz now and what he has done in this sport and facing the other guy you're rooting for is.... there are just no words to describe this. Cruz has become so wise, his story, his desire to keep it going in the game, RESPECT. Chito has grown so much in this sport, becoming the first Ecuadorian ever in the UFC, facing legends, RESPECT. Vamos Chito, vamos Ecuador🇪🇨!

[@unkn3141]

LoOVEe!! Listening to the Dominator!! Probably the most articulate and methodical fighters in the game!!

[@os8856]

I was always a dom fan, but seeing this side of chito has made me a fan of his now, too

[@kiabtoomlauj6249]

Dom's exceptional, for his time. But, unfortunately, I think unless Chito makes a big mistake, he will be a bit too much for Dom. The two are almost a decade a part. But if you take into consideration Cruz's many injuries and surgeries, they're more than 10 years apart in MMA years. Anyway, I never understand how a 5'8" guy has longer legs than HW Stipe... And the different ways he's able to use those outlier's legs, while standing, and the skills he has in BJJ... again, Dom was an exceptional fighter but his time has come and gone, I do believe...

[@TypicalZain]

This was great to watch

[@muscularharp2397]

Great fight. I'm excited to watch it!

[@lakebennett1274]

One of the smartest bantamweights all time vs one of the toughest 💯

[@joshjegel6550]

Awesome video! Can’t wait for this fight

[@benjac9]

The Mind of Dominic Cruz is an inspiring intellectual experience of purpose to assimilate.

[@josephfiola412]

I love you Dominick, your my inspiration

[@Takislol301]

Anyone else notice both Cruz and Chito have the same pet lol

[@anarminov4711]

Man i hate that match up, i love them both and i hate that one of them have to lose!

[@carlosm4516]

im hyped for this fight

[@nilesrodriguez4343]

This is gonna be a good one.

[@sandman62100]

This man is so underappreciated in terms of fight IQ, analysis, footwork, looks, charm etc. Undoubtedly a hall of famer and still has another title run left in him!

[@oldironsides4107]

Cruz? He’s ranked among the highest fight iq and intelligence fighters and best bantam weight of all time. The looks i don’t know.?

[@baltonraven4507]

Looks and charm? Dude what the...

[@Wethepeople911]

I honestly think it is very possible Chito retires Dom. He is the dark horse of the best division in the world. But Dom is a legend. Can’t wait!!

[@Bluepickles333]

Man I never knew about Dominick’s upbringing until this video. I’ve been a longtime fan and he’s always seemed to fight with a chip on his shoulder. Now I see why. Love this video series , can’t believe I never heard of it until now. I’ve watched almost all the Embeddeds and countdown shoes before a PPV. I didn’t they did these behind the scenes show for a fight night. Awesome stuff, thank you.

[@hurrifanc.3434]

This fight breaks my heart. I love both these guys. May the best man win. Unfortunately for them they're in murders row and there's another guy i love who's probably better than both of em luckily he'll be putting Sideshow bob O'malley in a casket!

[@SpookyRedz]

I’m a fan of Chito too , Chito is in a class of his own too

[@boobo3763]

YES, PLEASE!!!

[@erbeypineda4127]

Can't wait!

[@sergeantfirstclassb4998]

Top notch production

[@jeremiahfreitag5242]

In the beginning when Chito was spraying his garden I could have swore those look like bud trees by the fence

[@djaygizmo776]

Beautiful video

[@Chrissuave.]

Great episode.

[@Sensistar4200]

really looking forward to this brawl. may the best man win.

[@Loco5919]

THIS WILL BE THE BIGGEST FIGHT IN UFC HISTORY 100%

[@travisdray1221]

6:36 Haha, that cut to Dom just getting repaired up like some broken machine. I know both no doubt get recovery, but haha just really goes along with his story of being injured/sidelined for ages. Dom really has had a rough go of it.

[@gasparsmusic]

Would be cool to see Cruz get this win but man … chito just doesn’t give a f*ck. Excited for this one

[@maug323]

How many fighters can honestly say they would still be trying to fight after going through everything Cruz has? Not only that, but coming back and continuing to stay competitive in the top 10 of his division. Dude is a savage

[@rich45davis]

How did you actually get Cruz to open up?! Fantastic coverage.

[@jabarigraham3131]

The profanity is so fantastic to hear!!! Good stuff!!!

[@ghassaanzougueri]

Dominick Cruz is a true Legend! 💛 Him, alongside George Saint Pierre and Jon Jones, are arguably the greatest Mixed Martial Arts fighters in the history of the sport. Dominick Cruz is one of the few iconic and legendary persons in this life. I love him so much! And he is such a mighty role model!

[@Wcc815]

Dom been sparring hard

[@balaclavabilly]

Viva Ecuador 🇪🇨 and thats from a black British African ❤

[@benmcreynolds8581]

That Rob Font fight was Nuts. He was getting swarmed and beat up most the Early fight. Then destroyed Rob at the later half. Then Chito looked like he took NO DAMAGE! It's insane.

[@Azariah197]

That last line 😂 but also 💥😡💪🏼🔥

[@mickwritesmaui5899]

Chito (#6) is fighting Dom (#9), and Sean O’Malley (#14) is fighting Petr Yan (#1). On their way up, Suga got no name fights (except for Munoz), while Vera had to fight the toughest guys. This is an aspect of the UFC that frustrates me as a fan.

[@aleas799]

Cruz seems to always find a way but I think Vera at the point is primed for Cruz

[@Bluzzee]

I hop the ufc adds him soon to the game

[@Bluzzee]

Aye yoo chito just got added too bad I gotta work tonight 😂

[@sleepleZZZV3]

Thanks ESPN!!!

[@sallgoodman2323]

They delivered big time here 👍💯

[@Rex1010best]

Can they both win? I don’t want to see either lose…unfortunately I feel a knockout or a close decision this fight is amazing!

[@cursedyeet483]

great figthers hopefully great fight

[@mentemystyka8785]

Vamos Chito!!! Ecuador Contigo Siempre!!! 🇪🇨🇪🇨🇪🇨🇪🇨🇪🇨🇪🇨

[@pedrocolo25]

What a fight

[@capacityseveneightseven26]

Rooting for chito because his tatoos are actually badass and not cringe like other fighters.

[@karlricardo4088]

He's got a few pieces done by Bert Krak.

[@andresbueno8867]

GRANDE CHITO🇪🇨🇪🇨

[@INDIGE_STUDIO]

Pro content Gg.

[@myfavedits71]

Its hard not to root for Chito

[@elsuperguapo971]

Man, I hate to see these guys fight each other. We love them both in México. May the best man win.

[@odacious2571]

Cruz the only dude I’ve ever heard of that had 3 jobs and still got off by 5pm to go train lmao

[@magickmike6510]

Love his name in his tundra

[@R7SOUL]

Don't see it going well for Cruz, and 10min peace on injuries, unfortunately, feels like a prep for why Saturday doesn't go well for him. Zero negative on the OG; he had a solid career with some nice highlights. Hoping for an epic fight for both fighters.

[@iamalex4life]

Keith peterson liked this

[@Joshrayos]

These fighters are wise

[@ultimatecontactsports]

BW is definitely one of the best divisions in the world now, the talent level at 135 is so deep. Hardest it’s ever been for Dom and I honestly don’t think he’s one of the top 2-3 guys in the division anymore. But, if there’s any guy in the world who has the tenacity to fight his way back to the top it’s Cruz!

[@WALDENSOFTWARE]

It's tough to pick a side. Gonna be a good fight.

[@gurtajsinghmahal2011]

editors - we need a focus shot on chito vera face in interview. cameraman - Say no more🤣🤣🤣

[@selrachabu8412]

I love Dominic but this will be the toughest fight of his career. Good luck to both

[@ivanf9353]

cold line from dominick at the end

[@aripenik]

Uuuf Goosebumps...

[@Wolf_runner12]

Please more of massage footages! It’s so relaxing