UFC 210: Cormier Vs. Johnson 2 - A Complete Fight Preview And Predictions

Felix Dubois

6 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

4.7

Share

Cormier's Strengths and Fighting Style

Daniel Cormier, a former Olympic wrestler, brings a formidable skillset to the Octagon. His dominance stems from a potent combination of wrestling prowess, evolving striking, and exceptional fight IQ.

Cormier's Wrestling Dominance

Cormier's wrestling background is undeniably his greatest asset. His takedowns are consistently effective, allowing him to control the pace and dictate the fight's location.

• Successful takedowns: Cormier has consistently showcased his takedown skills throughout his UFC career, securing takedowns against top-tier opponents like Alexander Gustafsson and Jon Jones.
• Superior grappling control: Once on the ground, Cormier expertly maintains top position, utilizing his ground-and-pound to inflict significant damage.
• Effective takedown defense: While primarily an offensive wrestler, Cormier's takedown defense is also solid, limiting his opponent's ability to control the fight on the mat. This "Cormier wrestling" style makes him incredibly difficult to take down.

Cormier's Striking Improvements

While wrestling forms the foundation of his game, Cormier's striking has demonstrably improved over the years. He's developed a more accurate and powerful punch, adding another layer of threat to his arsenal.

• Improved accuracy: Cormier's striking is now more precise, targeting vulnerable areas effectively. His combinations have become more fluid and effective.
• Power punches: While not a knockout artist in the same vein as Johnson, Cormier possesses considerable power in his punches, capable of inflicting significant damage and potentially securing a stoppage.
• Strategic striking: Cormier uses his striking intelligently, setting up takedowns and controlling distance. His "Cormier striking" is as much about setting up his wrestling as it is about inflicting damage directly.

Cormier's Cardio and Fight IQ

Cormier's exceptional cardio and tactical acumen are often overlooked. His stamina allows him to maintain a high pace throughout the fight, often overpowering opponents in the later rounds.

• Late-round dominance: Cormier is known for his ability to win the later rounds, wearing down his opponents with relentless pressure and superior conditioning.
• Fight strategy adjustments: He's shown a remarkable ability to adapt his strategy mid-fight, exploiting his opponent's weaknesses and capitalizing on opportunities.
• Exceptional tactical acumen: Cormier's "Cormier stamina" and "tactical acumen" make him a very difficult opponent to beat.

Johnson's Strengths and Fighting Style

Anthony "Rumble" Johnson is a force of nature, known for his explosive power and aggressive fighting style. His ability to end fights swiftly and decisively is unmatched.

Johnson's Devastating Power

Johnson's knockout power is legendary. One well-placed strike can end the fight instantly, making him a constant threat throughout the bout.

• One-punch knockout power: Johnson's "one-hitter quitter" reputation is well-earned. He has an impressive record of finishing opponents with single strikes.
• High knockout percentage: A significant portion of his victories have come via knockout, highlighting his devastating punching power.
• Power punching accuracy: Johnson’s power is not just brute force; he has developed an accuracy in placing his power punches to maximize damage.

Johnson's Aggressive Fighting Style

Johnson's relentless pressure and forward momentum make him a dangerous opponent. He dictates the fight's pace and keeps his opponents constantly on the defensive.

• Aggressive fight starts: Johnson typically starts fights aggressively, attempting to end the fight early.
• Pressure fighting tactics: He uses his pressure fighting style to wear down his opponents and create openings for strikes.
• Dictating the fight pace: Johnson’s "Johnson aggression" influences the pace of the fight and forces his opponents to constantly react.

Johnson's Improved Grappling Defense

Since their last fight, Johnson has reportedly improved his grappling defense, though it remains a potential weakness.

• Improved takedown defense: While not a renowned wrestler, improvements in his "Johnson grappling defense" could significantly impact the fight.
• Ground game improvements: Although still a vulnerability, he’s likely worked on preventing takedowns and escaping from the ground.
• Submission defense: Johnson will need to minimize his time on the mat and avoid submissions at all costs.

Key Factors and Potential Fight Scenarios

Several key factors will influence the outcome of UFC 210: Cormier vs. Johnson 2.

The Rematch Factor

The first fight between these two ended with Cormier winning by unanimous decision. This rematch holds significant implications.

• Lessons learned: Both fighters will have learned from their previous encounter, adapting their strategies accordingly.
• Tactical adjustments: Expect both fighters to come in with tailored game plans to counter their opponent's strengths and exploit their weaknesses.
• Mental aspect: The mental game will be just as crucial as the physical one; the weight of the rematch and its implications will play a part.

Potential Fight Outcomes

Several outcomes are plausible:

• Early knockout: Johnson possesses the power to end the fight with one strike in the early rounds.
• Late-round submission: Cormier's wrestling and ground game could lead to a submission victory in the later rounds.
• Decision victory: A close and hard-fought decision is also a strong possibility, depending on how both fighters manage the pace and execute their strategies.

Impact of Weight Cut and Conditioning

The weight cut can significantly impact both fighters’ performance.

• Stamina and performance: A grueling weight cut could impact stamina and overall performance negatively.
• Weight-cutting issues: Past weight-cutting issues for either fighter would be relevant in analyzing their preparation for this fight.

Predictions and Conclusion of UFC 210: Cormier vs. Johnson 2

Prediction

Our prediction is that Daniel Cormier will win via unanimous decision. Cormier’s superior wrestling, improved striking, and exceptional cardio will allow him to control the fight's pace and outpoint Johnson over five rounds. While Johnson's power is always a threat, Cormier's well-rounded skillset and superior fight IQ make him the more likely victor.

Overall Fight Analysis

This fight promises a thrilling encounter between two powerful fighters. Cormier's wrestling and well-rounded skill set offers a significant advantage, but Johnson's explosive knockout power makes him a dangerous opponent until the final bell.

Conclusion

In conclusion, UFC 210: Cormier vs. Johnson 2 was poised to be a classic clash of styles. Cormier's superior wrestling and well-rounded game, combined with his tactical awareness and improving striking, give him a significant edge. While Johnson's power remains a constant threat, we believe Cormier's superior conditioning and strategic approach will ultimately lead him to victory. What are your predictions for UFC 210: Cormier vs. Johnson 2? Share your thoughts in the comments below!