Daniel Cormier's UFC Career: Stats, Fights & Analysis
Can a wrestling pedigree translate into championship success in the brutal world of mixed martial arts? Daniel Cormier, a name synonymous with grit, determination, and elite-level athleticism, provides a resounding affirmative, proving that wrestling is a more than viable path to the pinnacle of the sport.
Born in Lafayette, Louisiana, and later representing the United States on the world stage as a decorated wrestler, Cormier seamlessly transitioned his grappling prowess into a fearsome mixed martial arts career. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work, tactical brilliance, and the unwavering belief in one's own abilities. The man known as "DC" carved a legacy of dominance and respect within the Octagon. The former UFC Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight champion proved his mettle against a who's who of the sport's elite, cementing his place as one of the greatest fighters to ever grace the cage. He is now a respected color commentator for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). His post-fight commentary has added to his value in the sports world.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Ryan Cormier |
| Nickname | DC |
| Date of Birth | March 20, 1979 |
| Age | 43 years old (as of November 2023) |
| Nationality | American |
| Birthplace | Lafayette, Louisiana, USA |
| Height | 5'11" (180 cm) |
| Weight | 205-265 lbs (93-120 kg) - depending on the weight class |
| Reach | 72.5 inches (184 cm) |
| Fighting Style | Wrestling-based, with strong striking and ground-and-pound |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Professional MMA Record | 22 Wins, 3 Losses, 1 No Contest |
| Wins by KO/TKO | 10 |
| Wins by Submission | 5 |
| Wins by Decision | 7 |
| Losses by KO/TKO | 1 |
| Losses by Submission | 0 |
| Losses by Decision | 2 |
| Former UFC Champion | Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight Champion |
| Last Fight | Stipe Miocic (Loss) - August 15, 2020, at UFC 252, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
| Current Role | Color Commentator for the UFC |
| Training Ground | American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) |
| Notable Achievements | 2x NCAA Division I All-American, 2x Olympian (Freestyle Wrestling), Former Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Champion, UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, UFC Heavyweight Champion, Second fighter to hold UFC titles in two different weight classes simultaneously. |
| Reference | ESPN MMA Fighter Profile |
Daniel Cormier's path to the UFC was paved with wrestling success. Before dominating the octagon, Cormier was a highly accomplished wrestler. He earned a NCAA Division I All-American honors at Oklahoma State University. He represented the United States in freestyle wrestling at the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games, showcasing his elite grappling skills on the global stage. This foundation of grappling prowess gave him a distinct advantage when he transitioned into MMA. His core skills of takedowns, control, and ground-and-pound became the cornerstone of his fight strategies.
Cormier's UFC career is a tapestry woven with strategic victories, thrilling battles, and moments of undeniable brilliance. Let's delve into some key fights and assess his performance metrics:
UFC 192: Cormier vs. Gustafsson
This fight was a test of Cormiers heart and his chin. He fought Alexander Gustafsson at UFC 192 on October 3, 2015, in Houston, Texas. Cormier won this fight via split decision, 48-47, 47-48, 49-46. It was a hard-fought battle, and the scorecards reflected that. Gustafsson's height and reach advantage posed problems for Cormier, but Cormier's relentless pressure and takedowns ultimately secured him the victory. The fight earned Fight of the Night honors.
UFC 214: Cormier vs. Jones 2
This bout was a rematch and a highly anticipated fight at UFC 214. The match took place on July 29, 2017, in Anaheim, California. Jon Jones originally won by a TKO in the third round, but the result was later overturned to a no-contest due to Jones failing a pre-fight drug test. Cormier has a score of 1 and Jones scored 0 in this fight.
UFC 210: Cormier vs. Johnson 2
The rematch against Anthony Johnson on April 8, 2017, in Buffalo, New York, ended with Cormier submitting Johnson in the second round via rear-naked choke. It was a significant win. Cormier demonstrated his improved striking defense and ability to weather early storms. With this victory, Cormier defended his light heavyweight title.
UFC 252: Cormier vs. Miocic 3
Cormier's final fight, a trilogy bout against Stipe Miocic, occurred on August 15, 2020, at UFC 252 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Miocic won by unanimous decision. Despite his valiant effort, Cormier, hampered by the effects of the previous two wars, could not overcome Miocic's superior striking and stamina. The fight marked the end of an era, a fitting conclusion to an illustrious career. Though the result was a loss, the performance and his career overall cemented his legacy.
Striking and Grappling Analysis: Cormier's fighting style was a blend of high-level wrestling and evolving striking. His striking was effective, but not his primary weapon, using it to set up his wrestling and create opportunities to clinch. He possessed powerful overhand rights and a solid jab. His grappling was arguably the best in the UFC at the time. His takedowns were relentless, his top control suffocating, and his ground-and-pound punishing. His ability to wear down his opponents with pressure and transitions was a hallmark of his success.
Performance Metrics: Throughout his career, Cormier displayed a high fight IQ. He showed good accuracy both with his strikes and takedowns. His ability to take punishment was a major strength. Cormiers wrestling base ensured a high percentage of takedowns and his ability to control his opponents on the ground. He was also known for his cardio, which was crucial for his high-pressure fighting style, and which allowed him to maintain his level of performance throughout the fights. His power and ability to finish opponents, especially with ground-and-pound, added to his effectiveness.
Elo Rating and Fight Predictions: Elo ratings are a system for evaluating the skill levels of players in zero-sum games, like mixed martial arts. While Cormier's rating fluctuated throughout his career, it consistently placed him among the elite fighters in the world. Fight predictions involving Cormier were often difficult, as he was versatile and capable of adapting to any opponent. The element of his wrestling made him difficult to forecast.
The Legacy of DC: Daniel Cormier's legacy is one of grit, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He is one of the few fighters to hold titles in two weight divisions simultaneously, a testament to his skill and adaptability. While he suffered losses, he always demonstrated sportsmanship and respect for his opponents. His post-fight interviews and commentary have made him a beloved figure in the sport. His transition from fighter to commentator has only further enriched his legacy. His analysis is insightful, and his passion for the sport is evident. Cormier's story is an inspiration. It's a reminder that hard work, dedication, and a strategic approach can lead to unparalleled success in the world of professional fighting.
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