UFC 210: In-Depth Preview And Predictions For Cormier Vs. Johnson Rematch

Felix Dubois

5 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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Cormier's Strengths and Weaknesses Heading into UFC 210

Daniel Cormier, the current UFC light heavyweight champion, brings a well-rounded skillset to the octagon. His dominance is built on a foundation of exceptional wrestling and a steadily improving striking game.

Cormier's Wrestling Dominance

Cormier's wrestling pedigree is undeniable. His takedowns are consistently effective, and his ground control is suffocating.

• Effective Takedowns: He consistently takes opponents down, controlling the pace and dictating the fight's location. Examples include his dominant performances against Alexander Gustafsson and Ryan Bader.
• Impeccable Takedown Defense: His takedown defense has improved significantly, making it difficult for opponents to take him down.
• Superior Ground Control: Once on the ground, Cormier is incredibly difficult to escape. He uses his superior wrestling to maintain top position and deliver significant ground and pound.
• Improved Striking Defense: Since his last encounter with Johnson, Cormier has shown noticeable improvements in his ability to defend strikes, especially while standing.

Cormier's Striking Improvements

While wrestling forms the cornerstone of his game, Cormier's striking has evolved significantly. He’s become more accurate, powerful, and technically sound.

• Improved Accuracy and Power: His punches are landing with more consistency and impact.
• Developed Combinations: He's exhibiting more effective combinations, mixing punches and kicks to keep opponents off balance.
• Effective Clinch Work: His clinch game allows him to control the distance and land effective knees and elbows.

Potential Weaknesses to Exploit

Despite his strengths, Cormier has vulnerabilities. Johnson could potentially exploit these:

• Susceptibility to Powerful Punches: While his striking defense has improved, powerful punches, particularly ones thrown with speed and precision, still pose a threat.
• Potential Cardio Issues in Later Rounds: While his conditioning is generally excellent, prolonged exchanges could test his stamina in the later rounds.

Johnson's Strengths and Weaknesses Heading into UFC 210

Anthony "Rumble" Johnson is known for his devastating knockout power and explosive style. His strengths lie in his incredible punching power and aggressive fighting style.

Johnson's Devastating Power

Johnson's one-punch knockout power is legendary. He possesses a unique blend of speed and power that can end a fight in an instant.

• Lightning-Fast Knockouts: He has secured multiple quick knockouts with single strikes, showcasing his devastating power. His fights against Glover Teixeira and Vitor Belfort are prime examples.
• Exceptional Power in His Strikes: The speed and impact of his punches are unmatched by many in the division.

Johnson's Improved Ground Game

While primarily a striker, Johnson has shown improvements in his grappling and ground defense since his first fight with Cormier.

• Improved Takedown Defense: He seems to have improved his ability to defend takedowns, reducing the chances of Cormier controlling the fight on the ground.
• More Strategic Ground and Pound: He has shown more willingness and ability to use ground and pound effectively, when the opportunity arises.

Potential Weaknesses to Exploit

Johnson's aggressive style also presents openings for Cormier:

• Stamina Concerns: His aggressive style can lead to stamina issues in later rounds, making him vulnerable if the fight goes the distance.
• Defensive Wrestling: While improved, his defensive wrestling is still a weakness Cormier can exploit to take him down and control the fight.

A Detailed Breakdown of the First Cormier vs. Johnson Fight

The first encounter between Cormier and Johnson at UFC 187 provided crucial insights into their fighting styles and strategies.

Key Moments and Turning Points

• Early Rounds Domination: Johnson dominated the early rounds with his powerful striking, nearly finishing Cormier with a flurry of punches in the first round.
• Cormier's Grappling Control: Cormier utilized his wrestling and superior grappling in the later rounds.
• Decision Victory for Cormier: The fight ultimately ended with a unanimous decision victory for Cormier.

Lessons Learned from the First Encounter

Both fighters learned valuable lessons:

• Cormier: Recognized the danger of Johnson's power and focused on improving his striking defense and takedown defense.
• Johnson: Likely realized the need to improve his takedown defense and develop a more consistent strategy.

Prediction and Analysis for UFC 210

This rematch is poised to be even more explosive.

Fight Outcome Prediction

Our prediction is a victory for Daniel Cormier via decision. While Johnson possesses incredible knockout power, Cormier's improved striking defense, superior wrestling, and superior cardio will be the deciding factors. Johnson’s aggressive style could potentially leave him vulnerable to takedowns and prolonged grappling exchanges.

Potential Scenarios and Betting Odds

Several scenarios are possible:

• Cormier via Decision: The fight could go the distance with Cormier dominating on the ground and utilizing his wrestling and improved striking to secure a decision win.
• Johnson via KO: Johnson could secure a knockout early with a single powerful punch if he catches Cormier off guard.
• Late Round Submission: While unlikely, Johnson might get a late submission.

(Note: Betting odds can be included here if desired, linking to a relevant and reputable sportsbook).

Conclusion

The UFC 210 Cormier vs. Johnson rematch promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both fighters have evolved since their first fight, but Cormier's improved striking defense and superior wrestling skills give him the edge in this rematch. The potential for an early knockout always exists with Johnson, but Cormier's well-rounded game and stamina are likely to prevail. What are your predictions for the UFC 210 Cormier vs. Johnson rematch? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Check out our other articles covering UFC 210 and other exciting MMA events.