Daniel Cormier isn`t interested in rekindling his long-standing rivalry with Jon Jones.
Recently, Jones, often referred to as `Bones`, engaged with fan questions on YouTube. Among the queries was how he believed he would fare against Cormier in a hypothetical heavyweight clash between them at their respective peaks. Cormier and Jones are known for their two intense light heavyweight battles, both initially won by Jones (the second bout`s result was later changed to a no-contest following a positive drug test for Jones).
Having since moved up and secured the UFC heavyweight championship, Jones expressed confidence that he would not only defeat Cormier again but that the outcome would be “worse” than their previous encounters at 205 pounds.
During an ESPN segment promoting the upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter, Cormier addressed Jones` comments, appearing surprised that the subject was even raised.
Cormier recounted, “Jon Jones himself, back when I was still actively competing, said, `I would not fight Daniel at heavyweight because it gives him an advantage. That’s where he’s best at.` Now I`m 46 years old, officially retired, and I spend my free time hitting golf balls. He`s absolutely out of his mind.”
Cormier`s recollection aligns with past statements.
Indeed, in a 2019 interview with BT Sport, Jones had previously stated he had no desire to fight Cormier in the heavyweight division, explaining his belief that Cormier would be bigger and stronger in that weight class.
Jones` prior remarks included, “Daniel Cormier is a special athlete and anyone can be beat. I think my greatest chance of losing would be to a guy like Daniel Cormier, with giving him a power and strength advantage over me, it just doesn’t make sense.”
“Right now I make light heavyweight very easily and it just wouldn’t make no sense to fight a guy who I think technically [is] on your level, and to give him a size advantage, I’m not doing it. I’m not doing it. I’m sure my fans don’t like to hear me talk like that, but that’s just me being a realist and being respectful to Daniel’s abilities.”
Cormier further discussed Jones` recent comments on his Good Guy / Bad Guy podcast alongside Chael Sonnen.
“He actually said it,” Cormier reiterated. “He was like, ‘I wouldn’t fight Daniel at heavyweight.’ This was when I was actively fighting. And again, Jon and I’s rivalry is dead, it’s over, I don’t fight anymore. But come on, what are we doing?”
