Daniel Cormier’s Title Reign: All the details 

Daniel Cormier is widely known as one of the most dominant fighters in MMA  and one of the UFC’s greatest champions ever. Daniel Cormier’s legendary title reign in the UFC spanned two weight classes – Heavyweight and Light Heavyweight. This article closely examines Cormier’s incredible title run, notable opponents, and the significance of his accomplishments in the sport. 

Daniel Cormier’s Title History

Daniel Cormier first achieved champion status when he won the vacant light heavyweight title against Anthony Johnson at UFC 187 in May 2015. ’DC’ defeated the deadly knockout artist via third-round submission to be crowned champion. Cormier defended his light heavyweight title thrice before vacating it in December 2018. 

Daniel Cormier won his second title in the heavyweight division after beating Stipe Miocic in a surprise upset at UFC 226 in July 2018. He defended the heavyweight crown once against Derrick Lewis before Miocic reclaimed it via fourth-round knockout at UFC 241. 

Notable Opponents

Daniel Cormier faced several world-class opponents during his time as a UFC champion. Here are some notable opponents that Cormier faced during his title reign:

Jon Jones: The intense rivalry between Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones is widely considered the UFC’s most legendary feud. The two MMA juggernauts faced off twice as light heavyweights in their careers, with ‘Bones’ winning their first contest at UFC 182 via unanimous decision. Jones reclaimed the light heavyweight title in their second meeting at UFC 214 via knockout but had his victory overturned into a no-contest due to a steroid violation. 

Anthony Johnson: Daniel Cormier fought Anthony Johnson twice in his career. ‘DC’ and Johnson went head-to-head for the first time at UFC 187 in May 2015, with both fighters vying for the light heavyweight title left vacant by Jon Jones. 

In the fight, Cormier relied on his wrestling skills to secure a third-round submission to become the light heavyweight champion. In their second outing at UFC 210, Cormier once again submitted the Arkansas native to defend his light heavyweight title. 

Alexander Gustaffson: The fight between Daniel Cormier and Alexander Gustafsson will forever be remembered as a classic encounter in the light heavyweight division. Gustafsson challenged Cormier for the title at UFC 192 in October 2015 and posed a significant challenge to ‘DC,’ thanks to his exceptional striking and height advantage. 

While their epic five-round fight was a back-and-forth battle, Cormier’s wrestling pedigree proved too much to Gustafsson. His relentless wrestling helped him secure takedowns and maintain top control as he ultimately won via unanimous decision. 

Legacy

Daniel Cormier is undoubtedly among the UFC’s greatest fighters ever, and the former two-division champion is a certified legend. Cormier displayed excellent striking skills as a fighter apart from his untouchable wrestling. His ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling made him one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport. Daniel Cormier was also inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in June 2022. 

Conclusion

Daniel Cormier’s legacy extends far beyond his championship titles and accolades. The Louisiana native will always be remembered as a true ambassador for the sport, a role model for aspiring fighters, and a beloved figure in the MMA community.