Daniel Cormier: Stats, Record & Fight Breakdown - MMA Insights
Can a fighter's legacy be defined by their record alone? Daniel Cormier, a name synonymous with grit and determination in the world of mixed martial arts, has a story far more nuanced than the simple win-loss tally suggests.
Born March 20, 1979, in Lafayette, Louisiana, Daniel "DC" Cormier has etched his name into the annals of combat sports. His journey, however, is not just a collection of victories and defeats; it's a tapestry woven with personal tragedy, wrestling accolades, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Cormier's career began in the world of amateur wrestling, where he demonstrated an early aptitude for the sport. This foundation proved to be the bedrock upon which he built his formidable mixed martial arts career, a career that saw him capture titles in two different weight classes within the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Cormier's early life was marked by profound loss. When he was seven years old, his father was tragically killed. Despite the hardships, Cormier excelled in wrestling, winning three Louisiana state championships in high school. His wrestling prowess continued into college, and he went on to represent the United States at the 2004 Olympics, though he didn't compete due to a kidney issue. Cormier later transitioned to mixed martial arts, making his professional debut in 2009 at the age of 30, a relatively late start compared to many of his contemporaries.
Throughout his career, Cormier has demonstrated resilience, overcoming setbacks with a stoic resolve. He has proven himself as an elite competitor in both the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. He is also an affable personality, he often shares his insights and analysis to audiences worldwide through his role as a commentator. His transition from fighter to commentator has allowed him to remain deeply involved in the sport he loves.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Ryan Cormier |
| Nickname | DC |
| Date of Birth | March 20, 1979 |
| Birthplace | Lafayette, Louisiana, USA |
| Age | 45 (as of May 18, 2024) |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5'11" (180 cm) |
| Weight | 205-265 lbs (93-120 kg) (Varies by weight class) |
| Reach | 74.5 inches (189 cm) |
| Fighting Style | Wrestling-based, with strong striking and grappling |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Team | American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) |
| MMA Record | 22 wins, 3 losses, 0 draws, 1 No Contest |
| Wins by KO/TKO | 10 |
| Wins by Submission | 5 |
| Wins by Decision | 7 |
| Years Active | 2009 2020 |
| Last Fight | Loss to Stipe Miocic (August 15, 2020) |
| Notable Accomplishments |
|
| Website | UFC.com Athlete Profile |
Cormier's professional MMA record currently stands at 22 wins, 3 losses, and 0 draws. Of his 3 losses, one was due to a stoppage. Cormier has competed in 26 professional fights in total. He has secured 10 wins by knockout or technical knockout (KO/TKO), resulting in a knockout rate of approximately 45%. Furthermore, Cormier has five submission victories to his name.
Cormier's final professional MMA fight took place on August 15, 2020, at UFC 252 in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. He faced Stipe Miocic in their trilogy bout for the UFC Heavyweight title. Miocic ultimately secured a unanimous decision victory, marking the end of Cormier's fighting career. Despite the loss, the fight was a testament to Cormier's enduring spirit and his ability to compete at the highest level of the sport.
The roots of Cormier's fighting career are in wrestling. Before transitioning to MMA, he won three Louisiana state wrestling championships in high school. He was also a member of the United States Olympic wrestling team. His wrestling pedigree served as the cornerstone of his MMA success. This wrestling background gave him a powerful base for takedowns and control in the cage.
Cormier's ability to adapt and evolve over the years showcased his intelligence and strategic mindset. He wasn't just a wrestler; he became a well-rounded mixed martial artist, capable of striking with power and precision. His striking improved over time, as he learned to incorporate diverse techniques that complemented his wrestling strengths. He trained at the esteemed American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) under the tutelage of Javier Mendez, honing his skills alongside some of the best fighters in the world.
Cormier's rivalry with Jon Jones is a captivating part of MMA history. Their battles, both inside and outside the cage, captivated fans and generated significant interest. Their clashes were intensely competitive, marked by bad blood and high stakes. In a recent Instagram video, Cormier reflected on their battles. The Albuquerque native proved to be a challenging opponent for Cormier. These fights, filled with drama and intrigue, further solidified his reputation as a premier competitor.
The career of Daniel Cormier is marked by memorable moments, impressive victories, and hard-fought battles. His wins include victories over top-tier fighters like Anthony Johnson, Alexander Gustafsson, and Fabricio Werdum. He secured the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship by defeating Anthony Johnson and then defended the title. Cormier later became the UFC Heavyweight Champion, making him one of the few fighters in UFC history to hold titles in two different weight classes simultaneously.
In his early years, Cormier competed in Strikeforce, showcasing his skills and rising through the ranks. He won the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix, defeating some of the top heavyweight competitors. His performances in Strikeforce created a buzz, leading to his eventual move to the UFC, where he would become a global superstar.
Beyond the championships and the accolades, Cormier's impact on the sport extends beyond the cage. He is now a respected commentator for the UFC, providing insightful analysis and building on his legacy. His ability to break down fights and articulate the intricacies of the sport has earned him the respect of fans and fellow fighters alike. His transition to the broadcast booth has been seamless, and he has become a familiar and valued voice in the MMA community.
Cormier's character and personality have endeared him to fans worldwide. He is known for his sportsmanship and respect for his opponents, even in the face of intense rivalries. He exemplifies the virtues of perseverance, integrity, and dedication. He is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a role model for fans of the sport.
Cormier has experienced defeat, including losses to Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, both considered among the greatest fighters of all time. Despite these losses, he has never been one to shy away from a challenge or to make excuses. Instead, he has always acknowledged his opponents' skills. His willingness to face the best, even when the odds were stacked against him, speaks volumes about his courage and determination.
The fights against Jones were particularly significant, given their history and the competitive nature of their matchups. Even years after their rivalry, Cormier still carries the weight of his losses to Jones. Their battles were not only physical tests but also psychological battles, which added another layer of intensity to their story. Despite the disappointments, Cormier never shied away from the opportunity to fight Jones.
Cormier's legacy is one of excellence and integrity. He has left a significant mark on the sport, from his achievements inside the cage to his contributions as a commentator. Daniel Cormier is more than just a fighter; he is an ambassador of the sport, a symbol of resilience, and a testament to the human spirit. His story is an inspiration to all who strive for greatness. The career of Daniel Cormier is a study in dedication, skill, and the enduring power of the human will.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19016513/141_Daniel_Cormier.jpg)
