Cormier Vs. Johnson 2 (UFC 210): Fight Preview And Winning Prediction

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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Daniel Cormier's Strengths and Fighting Style

Daniel Cormier, a former Olympian wrestler, brought an unparalleled level of grappling prowess to the Octagon. His fighting style is a potent blend of wrestling dominance, calculated striking, and relentless ground and pound.

Cormier's Wrestling Prowess

Cormier's wrestling background is the cornerstone of his success. His exceptional takedowns, ground control, and grappling dominance have consistently stifled opponents.

• Dominant takedowns: He secured numerous takedowns against opponents like Alexander Gustafsson and Jon Jones, controlling the fight on the ground.
• Superior ground control: His ability to maintain top position and deliver punishing ground and pound is legendary.
• Improved striking defense: Since the first fight with Johnson, Cormier noticeably sharpened his striking defense, minimizing the impact of his opponent's power punches.

Cormier's Striking and Ground Game

While his wrestling is formidable, Cormier's striking and ground and pound have significantly improved. His boxing accuracy and power, combined with his relentless pursuit on the ground, make him a dangerous opponent.

• Calculated striking: Cormier utilizes precise strikes, setting up takedowns or capitalizing on openings.
• Devastating ground and pound: His ground and pound is brutal and effective, often leading to TKO victories.
• Excellent cardio and stamina: Cormier consistently displays impressive cardio, enabling him to maintain a high intensity throughout the fight.

Anthony Johnson's Strengths and Fighting Style

Anthony "Rumble" Johnson is a force of nature known for his devastating knockout power. His fighting style revolves around explosive power punches and overwhelming aggression.

Johnson's Knockout Power

Johnson possesses arguably the most devastating power punching ability in the history of the Light Heavyweight division. He's a true knockout artist, capable of ending a fight with a single, perfectly timed blow.

• One-punch knockout power: His knockout victories are testament to his explosive power and ability to deliver fight-ending blows.
• Intimidating power punching: His mere presence can affect an opponent's confidence, forcing them to make mistakes.
• Improved wrestling defense: Johnson displayed improvements in his wrestling defense leading up to the rematch, although it still remained a potential weakness.

Johnson's Weaknesses and Potential Strategies

While his power is undeniable, Johnson's weaknesses lie in his cardio and fight strategy. Cormier could exploit these vulnerabilities.

• Cardio concerns: Johnson's stamina has been questioned in past fights, making it crucial for him to finish early.
• Grappling defense vulnerabilities: His wrestling defense remains a considerable weakness that Cormier could exploit.
• Early aggression necessity: Johnson needs to land early and often; failing to do so risks allowing Cormier to control the fight.

Analyzing the First Fight: Cormier vs. Johnson 1

The first fight, UFC 187, was a thrilling encounter. While Johnson started strong, Cormier’s superior wrestling and ground game ultimately secured the victory.

Key Moments and Turning Points

• Johnson's early aggression: Johnson came out aggressively, landing powerful strikes in the opening rounds.
• Cormier's takedown success: Cormier secured takedowns, slowing down Johnson's momentum and controlling the fight's pace.
• Cormier's ground control and control of the later rounds: Cormier's ability to dominate on the ground and tire Johnson determined the final outcome.

Lessons Learned and Adjustments

Both fighters undoubtedly learned valuable lessons from their first encounter.

• Johnson's need for improved cardio and grappling defense: Johnson must improve his cardio and grappling defense to withstand Cormier's wrestling assault.
• Cormier's strategy to maintain pace and control: Cormier needs to continue his strategic approach, controlling the pace and dictating where the fight takes place.

Prediction for Cormier vs. Johnson 2 (UFC 210)

Considering Cormier's superior wrestling, improved striking defense, and relentless ground game, coupled with Johnson's potential cardio issues and grappling vulnerabilities, a Cormier victory seems likely. However, a single, perfectly timed punch from Johnson could change the fight dramatically. Therefore, while Cormier is the favorite, the possibility of an early Johnson knockout remains.

Conclusion: The Verdict on Cormier vs. Johnson 2

Cormier's wrestling prowess, combined with his improved striking and cardio, presents a significant challenge for Johnson. While Johnson's knockout power remains a constant threat, his potential weaknesses make a Cormier victory more probable. Therefore, my prediction for "Cormier vs. Johnson 2" at UFC 210 is a Cormier win, likely via decision or late TKO.

But what are your thoughts? Share your predictions for the "Cormier vs. Johnson 2" fight and let's discuss in the comments section below! This rematch was a monumental event in UFC history, and the anticipation alone makes it a must-see. Let the discussion begin!