Jon Jones stirred debate in May 2025 by claiming he would overpower Daniel Cormier more convincingly at heavyweight than in their past light heavyweight bouts.
The two clashed twice, with Jones winning by unanimous decision at UFC 182 in January 2015 and a knockout at UFC 214 in July 2017, later ruled a no-contest due to a banned substance. Their rivalry remains a cornerstone of UFC lore.
“Peak Bones versus Peak DC at heavyweight?” Jones asked in a May 2025 interview. “I believe I beat Daniel Cormier at heavyweight worse than I beat him at light heavyweight. My speed has transferred over in a way that his hasn’t,” he said, emphasizing his kicks’ edge.
Jones’ confidence rests on his agility carrying over to heavyweight. Research shows speed often fades in heavier divisions, yet he insists his remains sharp. Cormier, a former heavyweight champ, relied on power but struggled with quickness.
Now 27-1, Jones dominates as UFC heavyweight champion after submitting Ciryl Gane in 2023 and defeating Stipe Miocic in November 2024. His resume boasts wins over nine former UFC titleholders.
Cormier, retired since 2020 with a 22-3 record, held belts in light heavyweight and heavyweight. He toppled Miocic in 2018 but dropped their trilogy, proving his strength but exposing limits against elite foes.
Jones Reflects on Close Fights and Redemption
Jones spoke about close calls, saying:
“I’ve tasted defeat in the ring in moments when my fights have come close. Daniel Cormier, some people feel Daniel could have won those fights,” citing debates over his wins against Cormier, Gustafsson, and Reyes.
He added, “Personally, I’ve never had a fight that I lost or I didn’t perform well and then haven’t come back and not performed well. If you catch me on an off day, know that when I’m back, you’ll see me at my absolute best,” highlighting his drive to rebound.
Jones noted recent bouts, saying:
“For example, with Ciryl Gane, people thought that I looked older, not as smooth as normal. I came back against Stipe Miocic and people were, like, ‘That looked like the Jon Jones of old,’” proving his ability to shine. h/t MMAFighting
The feud began with a 2014 press conference brawl, escalating through verbal jabs and their two fights. Their personal animosity fueled MMA’s most intense rivalry.
Cormier, now a UFC analyst, has not directly addressed Jones’ latest claim but once admitted he couldn’t beat him, despite doping issues. He views Jones’ legacy as marred by controversies.
A third fight seems unlikely, with Cormier retired and Jones eyeing matchups like Tom Aspinall. Jon Jones dismissed a heavyweight fight with Daniel Cormier in 2018, saying the division suited Cormier’s strengths, and chose not to pursue the matchup.
