Jon Jones Vs. Cormier 1: Epic Highlights & Fight Recap

Hey fight fans! Let's dive into one of the most heated rivalries and unforgettable matchups in UFC history: Jon Jones vs. Daniel Cormier 1. This fight was more than just a title bout; it was a clash of personalities, styles, and legacies. If you weren't around to watch it live, or just want to relive the excitement, then you're in for a treat! In this article, we're breaking down the highlights, the backstory, and the lasting impact of this legendary fight.

The Backstory: A Rivalry Born from Intensity

Before we jump into the Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 fight highlights, it's important to understand the bad blood between these two elite athletes. The rivalry between Jon "Bones" Jones and Daniel "DC" Cormier wasn't just manufactured for the cameras; it was genuine. It stemmed from a mix of competitive spirit, contrasting personalities, and a few heated exchanges outside the octagon. Jones, the younger, supremely talented champion, and Cormier, the older, accomplished wrestler and Olympian, were on a collision course from the moment DC entered the light heavyweight division.

The animosity really started to ramp up in 2014. A press conference staredown escalated into a physical altercation, with Jones and Cormier exchanging blows and having to be separated by security. This incident fueled the already intense rivalry, turning their upcoming fight into a must-see event. The trash talk was legendary, with both fighters taking personal shots at each other, adding fuel to the fire. Cormier questioned Jones' character and lifestyle, while Jones poked fun at Cormier's past losses and perceived shortcomings. All of this created an electric atmosphere leading up to their first encounter.

Beyond the theatrics, there was a real sense of competition and mutual respect (however begrudging) between the two. Jones recognized Cormier as a legitimate threat to his title, while Cormier saw Jones as the ultimate test of his abilities. This combination of genuine dislike and respect made their rivalry so compelling.

The backstory adds so much weight to every punch, every takedown, and every moment of the fight. Knowing what these two men went through to get to that octagon makes watching the Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 highlights even more impactful. It wasn't just about a belt; it was about pride, legacy, and settling a score.

Fight Highlights: A Round-by-Round Breakdown

Alright, guys, let's get into the good stuff – the Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 fight highlights! This fight was a five-round war, filled with ebbs and flows, showcasing the incredible skills of both fighters. Here’s a breakdown of each round:

Round 1: Feeling Out Process

The first round started with both fighters being cautious, trying to gauge their opponent's timing and range. Cormier came out with his signature pressure, trying to close the distance and get inside on Jones. Jones, known for his unorthodox striking and reach advantage, used his range to keep Cormier at bay. There were some good exchanges, with Cormier landing a few punches and Jones answering with kicks. Overall, a relatively close round, with Cormier perhaps edging it due to his forward pressure.

Round 2: Cormier's Wrestling

In the second round, Cormier started to implement his wrestling more effectively. He managed to secure a few takedowns, but Jones showed incredible resilience, popping back up quickly each time. However, these takedowns allowed Cormier to control the pace and dictate where the fight took place. Jones landed some good strikes towards the end of the round, but Cormier's wrestling probably gave him the edge.

Round 3: Jones Starts to Take Over

This is where Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 highlights really start to heat up. Jones began to find his rhythm, landing more consistently with his strikes. His jab and kicks were finding their mark, and he started to frustrate Cormier with his movement. Cormier's takedown attempts became less frequent and less successful. Jones' confidence grew as the round progressed.

Round 4: The Head Kick Heard 'Round the World (Almost)

The fourth round was arguably the most exciting of the fight. Jones landed a brutal head kick that visibly stunned Cormier. It was a pivotal moment, and it looked like Jones was about to finish the fight. Cormier, showing his incredible toughness and heart, somehow managed to weather the storm and stay in the fight. Jones continued to pressure, but Cormier survived the round. This round definitively belonged to Jones.

Round 5: Jones Seals the Deal

Heading into the final round, Cormier needed a finish. However, Jones continued to control the distance and dictate the pace. He landed more strikes and kept Cormier at bay. Cormier showed his grit and determination, but he was visibly fatigued. Jones cruised through the round, securing the victory on the scorecards. The Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 highlights of this round show Jones' superior conditioning and fight IQ.

The Aftermath: A Continuing Saga

After Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1, the rivalry was far from over. Jones won the fight via unanimous decision, retaining his light heavyweight title. However, the controversy surrounding Jones' personal life and subsequent issues with the UFC kept the rivalry alive. They were scheduled to fight again several times, but the rematch kept getting delayed due to various issues.

The rematch eventually happened at UFC 214 in 2017. Jones won again, this time by knockout, but the victory was later overturned due to Jones testing positive for a banned substance. The result was changed to a no-contest, and Cormier was reinstated as the light heavyweight champion. This only added more fuel to the fire, solidifying their rivalry as one of the most complex and controversial in MMA history.

Even after Cormier's retirement, the two have continued to exchange words and jabs through social media and interviews. Their rivalry has become legendary, and Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 remains a pivotal moment in their intertwined careers.

Why This Fight Matters: Legacy and Impact

Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 wasn't just a great fight; it had a significant impact on the sport of MMA. It showcased the clash of different styles and personalities, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of the sport. It also highlighted the importance of mental fortitude and the ability to overcome adversity.

For Jon Jones, this fight solidified his status as one of the greatest fighters of all time. He proved that he could overcome a tough opponent and maintain his dominance in the light heavyweight division. For Daniel Cormier, it was a learning experience. Despite the loss, he showed his incredible toughness and determination, proving that he belonged at the top of the division. He would later go on to become a two-division champion, further cementing his legacy.

The rivalry between Jones and Cormier captivated fans and brought a new level of attention to the UFC. It was a story of contrasting personalities, intense competition, and unforgettable moments. The Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 highlights are a testament to the skill, heart, and determination of both fighters.

Final Thoughts: A Fight for the Ages

So, there you have it – a recap of Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 and why it remains such a memorable fight. From the intense backstory to the thrilling highlights, this fight had it all. Whether you're a die-hard MMA fan or just getting into the sport, this is a fight worth watching and studying. It's a reminder of what makes MMA so exciting: the skill, the drama, and the unpredictable nature of combat sports.

What are your favorite Jon Jones vs. Cormier 1 highlights? Let us know in the comments below! And don't forget to share this article with your fellow fight fans!