In 2026, the well-known rivalry between Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier is intensifying once more. Their intense competition began in 2015 when they first clashed inside the UFC Octagon, establishing one of mixed martial arts’ most iconic feuds. Now, the saga continues with a surprising announcement: both former UFC champions are set to serve as coaches on Russia’s version of The Ultimate Fighter. Following last year’s buzz when Alf Reality matched Jones against Nate Diaz in a similar show, the upcoming season promises to escalate the excitement even further.
Despite their confrontations years ago, Jones and Cormier have yet to fight again in any format. However, Cormier has proposed a real rematch—not in the cage, but on the mat—through Real American Freestyle Wrestling, which has been gaining attention due to high-profile competitors like Yoel Romero, Arman Tsarukyan, and Henry Cejudo. Cormier boldly declared his intent to face Jones in this wrestling promotion, confident in his skills and readiness to take Jones on in this new arena.
Though both fighters have retired from MMA, the fighting world is known for unexpected matchups, but given their ages—Jones at 38 and Cormier at 46—a future bout between them seems improbable.
Fan Take: This development is thrilling for fight fans because it keeps the legendary Jones-Cormier rivalry alive in an innovative way, blending MMA with wrestling and expanding the boundaries of combat sports. It also underscores the evolving nature of fighting careers and how icons like these can continue to captivate audiences beyond the octagon.
