Daniel Cormier hasn't ruled out another chapter in his historic rivalry with Jon Jones . Even retired from MMA, the former UFC champion believes a rematch with his old rival could happen, this time on the wrestling mats.
According to the North American website MMA Fighting, Cormier stated in a recent conversation with fellow former Olympic wrestler Ben Askren that he envisions a fight against Jones in Real American Freestyle, a league focused on professional wrestling.
“I’m telling you: Real American Freestyle is still going to put me against Jon Jones at some point, and I’m going to beat him like you can’t even imagine. Because, guess what, I still fight. I still train fighters every day,” said 'DC'.
Daniel Cormier believes he would out-wrestle Jon Jones in real American freestyle wrestling 🔥🥊
“I'm gonna kick his ass like you would never believe because guess what, I still shoot because I still train wrestlers every single day” pic.twitter.com/l51hovIGM6
— CB Sport (@theCBsport) January 6, 2026
See too
A rivalry that spans generations.
The rivalry between Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones began even before both reached their peak in the UFC. Their first encounter occurred at UFC 121, when Jones provoked Cormier by stating that he could easily take him down, despite 'DC' being one of the biggest names in Olympic wrestling.
The statement was not well received and sparked a decade of provocations, tensions, and verbal clashes that helped shape one of the most iconic rivalries in MMA history.
Inside the octagon, Jones and Cormier faced each other twice. Jon Jones won the first duel by unanimous decision and knocked out 'DC' in the rematch with a brutal high kick. However, the second result was overturned after 'Bones' tested positive for a banned substance.
Rivalry still alive outside the octagon.
Jon Jones in victory over Daniel Cormier at UFC 214. (Photo: Reproduction/Twitter UFC Brazil)
Even after Cormier's retirement and their careers taking different paths, the rivalry remains alive. Proof of this is that Jones and Cormier will lead opposing teams on the reality show ALF MMA , scheduled for later this year.
Now, with the emergence of Real American Freestyle, 'DC' sees a new opportunity to face his biggest rival, far from the gloves of MMA, but in a territory where he has always felt at home: wrestling.
Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.
You need to log in to comment.