In late 2008, Salido had the opportunity to fight again for the IBF belt that he was forced to vacate due to his suspension, against Cristobal Cruz. Salido lost the bout via split decision. A judge scored it 115-113 for Salido, while the other two had it 116-112 for Cruz. Salido got off to a good start winning the first and middle rounds. Cruz never gave up and started to look better around the 8th and 9th rounds, forcing the action and closing the fight very strong. Many observers though that Salido deserved the victory because of the big lead that he built in the first 2 thirds of the fight.