Epidemic of injuries strikes the first serious blow in New year. The champion of the easiest division Dominique Cruz was traumatized inguinal muscles and won't be able to take part in the show UFC 169 where it had to meet the interim champion Renan Barao.

As a result of Cruz released a title of the champion, and Barao officially is now not temporary, but the defending champion of UFC in the easiest weight. For replacement to Cruz less than a month before fight there is Yuraya Feyber who will carry out a title revenge with Barao in the main fight of the UFC 169 tournament.

Event will take place the State of New Jersey on February 1 in Newark.

Cruz (19-1) didn't act since October, 2011 when won the unanimous decision of judges against Demitrius Johnson. After that Dominique broke off a ligament of a knee (ACL), and then spent two years, alternating the restoration periods to recurrence. The management UFC declared that in case of impossibility to fight at the beginning of 2014 Cruz it is necessary to release a title – as happened.

Barao (31-1, 1 NC) carried out six duels to UFC, and all them won. In July of last year Renan carried out fight for a title of the interim champion of the easiest division against Yurayi Feyber, having won a victory the unanimous decision of judges. After that Bara twice successfully I protected a belt, having strangled Michael MacDonald and having knocked out Eddie Vaynlend.