Daniel Cormier`s career is famously intertwined with one of the UFC`s most significant rivalries. While they competed twice for the light heavyweight championship, his professional journey with Jon Jones extends beyond typical opponents.
After achieving success at light heavyweight, both fighters transitioned to the heavyweight class, where Jones currently holds the championship. Cormier expressed surprise at Jones` recent remarks, where he suggested he would have been even more dominant against `DC` had they met in the heavyweight division.
The UFC commentator has shown little inclination to engage in further verbal sparring, even declining a chance to coach opposite Jones on a reality series.
Daniel Cormier says Jon Jones should focus on the present and fight Tom Aspinall
Speaking on his YouTube channel recently, Daniel Cormier addressed Jon Jones` speculation about a hypothetical heavyweight clash between them.
Cormier retired in August 2020 after his trilogy with Stipe Miocic, which ended with two consecutive losses.
In the same month, Jones relinquished his light heavyweight title, announcing plans to take a break and prepare for a move up to the heavyweight division.
Cormier suggested that Jones should focus on current challenges rather than dwelling on past hypotheticals or different career paths.
Fans have also voiced criticism towards Jones regarding the ongoing situation with interim champion Tom Aspinall, who is eager for a title unification bout.
Cormier offered a straightforward suggestion: if Jones truly wants to demonstrate his heavyweight prowess, he should face the fighter who currently believes he is the best.
“You’re talking about what you would’ve done to me years ago, back when I retired. Here’s a thought – a novel idea, even. I’m retired, I’m finished. I’m 46, I`m a broadcaster, a commentator, just a talking head. How about this novel suggestion: fight the guy who actually wants to fight? I have zero desire to fight Jon Jones or anyone else. But why not fight the person who’s actively waiting for you – Tom Aspinall? It’s not about what might have happened in the past; as fans, we want to see what happens now.”
The fans are on the same page as Daniel Cormier for the most part
Daniel Cormier is not alone in wanting Jon Jones to focus on future challenges instead of past events.
Social media comments on any Jones-related posts are frequently filled with demands for him to fight Tom Aspinall, often accompanied by images or GIFs of the interim champion.
Jones even preempted this criticism in a recent announcement about a seminar, jokingly stating he`s doing “everything but fighting.”
Interestingly, years ago when both were active competitors, Jones himself stated he wouldn`t fight Cormier at heavyweight, citing too much of an advantage.
Rupert Hartwell