Jon Jones And Daniel Cormier: An Unresolved Rivalry?

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 30, 2025

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Their History: A Timeline of Conflict

The Early Days and First Encounter:

The seeds of animosity between Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier were sown long before their first fight. Their initial interactions were marked by intense trash talk and simmering tension, fueled by contrasting personalities and competitive spirits. This palpable dislike culminated in their highly anticipated first encounter at UFC 182 in January 2015. Jones, the reigning light heavyweight champion, ultimately defeated Cormier via unanimous decision, further igniting their rivalry.

• Key moments from their early interactions: Their first press conference was explosive, with heated exchanges and personal insults. The weigh-in saw a near-physical altercation, highlighting the animosity. Post-fight interviews were equally fiery, with both fighters refusing to give an inch. The underlying tension was palpable, promising future clashes.

The Rematch and Beyond:

Their rivalry continued with a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 214 in July 2017. Jones once again emerged victorious, this time via third-round knockout. However, this victory was later overturned to a no contest due to Jones testing positive for a prohibited substance. This controversial outcome added another layer of complexity to their already intense feud. Their third and final fight took place at UFC 217 in November 2017, where Cormier won by unanimous decision.

• Significant events: Jones' disqualification at UFC 214 overshadowed his victory, fueling Cormier's claims of cheating. Cormier's emotional reactions after each fight, marked by a mix of triumph and frustration, became iconic moments in the rivalry. The post-fight press conferences were often chaotic, with both fighters continuing their verbal sparring.

The Outside-the-Octagon Battles:

The Jones vs. Cormier rivalry extended far beyond the octagon. Their social media exchanges were legendary, filled with insults, accusations, and personal attacks. Public appearances and interviews often featured further confrontations, reinforcing their deep-seated dislike. Their feud captivated the MMA community and spilled over into mainstream media, solidifying its status as one of the greatest rivalries in sports history.

• Examples of their ongoing feud: Countless tweets and Instagram posts targeted each other, often involving their families and personal lives. Multiple instances of public confrontations, both planned and spontaneous, fueled the narrative. Quotes from their interviews, peppered with insults and personal attacks, were widely circulated.

The Legacy of Their Rivalry: Impact on UFC and MMA

The Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier rivalry had a significant impact on the UFC and the broader MMA landscape. Their fights generated massive viewership and pay-per-view buys, boosting the popularity of the UFC and significantly contributing to the financial success of the organization. The intense media coverage surrounding their feud further enhanced the overall popularity of the sport.

• Statistical evidence of impact: Their fights consistently ranked among the highest-selling UFC pay-per-view events. Media coverage of the rivalry reached unprecedented levels, generating widespread interest in MMA amongst casual viewers. The rivalry's cultural impact transcended the typical sports fanbase.

The Unresolved Questions:

Despite their three encounters, the Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier rivalry remains unresolved in many ways. The controversies surrounding Jones' failed drug tests, coupled with the close and often contentious nature of their fights, leave room for endless speculation and debate. What if Jones hadn’t failed the drug tests? What if the fights had gone differently? These "what if" scenarios fuel ongoing discussions within the MMA community.

• Hypothetical outcomes: Fans and analysts still debate who was the superior fighter, factoring in hypothetical scenarios, potential matchups under different circumstances, and the legacy of their three encounters. The unresolved nature of their personal animosity adds to the enduring fascination with this sports rivalry.

Conclusion: A Rivalry for the Ages – Is it Truly Over?

The Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier rivalry is a defining chapter in UFC and MMA history. Its intensity, longevity, and impact on the sport are undeniable. The lingering controversies and unanswered questions only serve to solidify its place as one of the greatest rivalries ever witnessed. The unresolved nature of their feud continues to fascinate and provoke discussion years later.

Do you believe their rivalry is truly over? Share your thoughts and opinions on the Jones vs. Cormier saga in the comments below! Let's continue the conversation using #JonesCormierRivalry on social media!