Daniel Cormier’s UFC career: All the details

Daniel Cormier is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists in the history of MMA.  The highly accomplished athlete is also the second champion to hold two titles simultaneously in the UFC. This article takes a closer look at Cormier’s UFC debut, notable opponents, and legacy. 

Daniel Cormier’s UFC Debut

After graduating from college, Daniel Cormier enjoyed a successful run as a freestyle wrestler and was even named captain of the American Olympic Wrestling team in 2008. After the 2008 Olympics, ‘DC’ transitioned to MMA and made his professional debut in September 2009. 

Daniel Cormier made his UFC debut against Frank Mir in a heavyweight contest at UFC on Fox 7 in San Jose in April 2013. Cormier put on a wrestling clinic and controlled the fight with his relentless grappling skills. At the end of three rounds, he won the fight via unanimous decision to announce his arrival in the promotion. 

Daniel Cormier faced many world-class opponents during his time in the UFC, and the former two-division champion featured in some of the UFC’s most unforgettable bouts.  

Daniel Cormier’s Most Notable Opponents

Jon Jones: The rivalry between Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones is legendary and arguably remains the most fierce feud in UFC history. The two men faced off twice as light heavyweights in their careers, with ‘Bones’ winning their first contest and having his second KO victory over Cormier overturned into a no-contest due to a steroid violation. 

The build-up to their bouts was defined by personal insults, vile tirades, and even death threats. Jones and Cormier infamously brawled during a face-off before their first meeting in 2015. 

Stipe Miocic: Daniel Cormier and Stipe Miocic shared an epic rivalry in the UFC heavyweight division. The two MMA legends faced each other three times in their UFC careers, with the heavyweight title on the line each time. 

‘DC’ challenged Miocic for the undisputed UFC heavyweight title for the first time at UFC 226 in July 2018. In a stunning upset, Cormier secured a first-round knockout against Miocic to become a simultaneous two-division champion. Daniel Cormier already held the light heavyweight title at the time. 

Stipe Miocic later reclaimed his heavyweight crown at UFC 241 by knocking Cormier out in the fourth round and then defended it by defeating ‘DC’ for the second time via unanimous decision at UFC 252. 

Anderson Silva: Widely considered among the greatest martial artists of all time, Anderson Silva fought Daniel Cormier in a light heavyweight bout at UFC 200. The Louisiana native used his wrestling and grappling prowess to control the fight on the ground through all three rounds to defeat the Brazilian legend via unanimous decision. 

Anthony Johnson: Daniel Cormier fought Anthony Johnson twice in his career. Known for being a proficient knockout artist, ‘Rumble’s devastating power posed a significant challenge to Cormier. 

Daniel Cormier faced Anthony Johnson for the first time at UFC 187, where ‘DC’s wrestling pedigree helped him secure a third-round submission to win the vacant light heavyweight title. In their second outing at UFC 210, Cormier once again submitted the Arkansas native to defend his light heavyweight title. 

Legacy

Daniel Cormier spent over seven years in the UFC, establishing himself as a true legend of the sport. Among his defining accomplishments, his champion status in two weight classes certainly takes the cake, as he simultaneously held the light heavyweight and heavyweight titles. Cormier remains one of the most popular UFC fighters ever.

Conclusion

It is undeniable that Daniel Cormier has significantly impacted the sport of MMA. His impressive achievements, exceptional skills, and admirable conduct inside and outside the octagon have rightfully earned him a place among the all-time greats. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of fighters, ensuring his lasting influence on the sport for years to come.