Former UFC light-heavyweight champion, Daniel Cormier, discusses his views on Jon Jones being within the working for ESPN’s MMA fighter of the 12 months — suggesting teammate, Islam Makhachev must be enormously thought-about.
After a number of years and numerous rumours, Jones made a triumphant return to the UFC, making fast work of former UFC interim heavyweight champion, Ciryl Gane, within the first spherical. With the victory, Jones turned the unified UFC heavyweight champion and likewise a choose few of fighters who’ve gained belts in a number of weight lessons.
Daniel Cormier makes the case for an Islam Makhachev award
Whereas Jones’s achievements are actually deserving of reward, former opponent and now UFC commentator, Daniel Cormier, doesn’t assume he deserves the ESPN Fighter Of The 12 months award — preferring AKA coaching associate, Islam Makhachev, as an alternative.
“I simply don’t know if one battle within the 12 months towards Ciryl Gane places you in that place,” Cormier mentioned on his ESPN podcast present “DC & RC.” “And that’s no knock on Ciryl. It was only one battle. You gotta consider the storylines that comply with these different athletes. From Islam Makhachev beating ‘Do Bronx’ (Oliveira) to win the belt, from Islam Makhachev beating Alexander Volkanovski. (H / T MMA Junkie)
“I believe Jones wanted yet one more efficiency to search out himself within the working for an ESPY,” Cormier continued. “The storyline simply doesn’t add up.”
Whereas Cormier recognises Jones’ accomplishment, the previous Olympian feels ‘Comeback Fighter of The 12 months is extra suited.
“I agree with that: Jon Jones greatest comeback athlete, sure,” Cormier mentioned. “I’m all in on that. Three years away, comes again and turns into the heavyweight champion of the world, completely, sure.”
Do you agree with Daniel Cormier or does Jon Jones deserve fighter of the 12 months award from ESPN?
