Islam Makhachev has expressed that he does not wish to see Daniel Cormier compete in a potential UFC trilogy against Jon Jones, although he feels things might be different if they face off in wrestling.
Cormier and Jones have one of the most intense rivalries in MMA history, which produced two landmark fights in the sport. Jones, from New York, claimed victory in both, including a brutal knockout in their second bout that was later ruled a no-contest after Jones failed a drug test.
Nearly a decade after their last fight, the two are set to cross paths again, but this time only as coaches on a Russian reality show. Cormier has also suggested the possibility of a pure wrestling match against Jones via the Real American Freestyle platform.
Islam Makhachev, a close friend of Cormier’s with a competitive yet respectful relationship, shared his thoughts on the idea of a trilogy fight. He feels it would be tough for Cormier to beat Jones in MMA but believes Cormier stands a better chance if it’s a wrestling-only match. Makhachev pointed out that while Jones is skilled in wrestling, Cormier’s Olympic-level wrestling talent gives him the edge in that discipline.
Fan Take: This news excites fight fans because it highlights the complexity of the legendary Jones-Cormier rivalry beyond MMA, emphasizing their technical prowess in grappling. A wrestling showdown between these two icons could offer a fresh, thrilling dimension to their long-standing feud, bridging the gap between MMA and pure grappling sports.
