Cormier Vs. Johnson 2: UFC 210 Fight Preview & Expert Predictions

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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Cormier's Strengths and Weaknesses

Cormier's Wrestling Prowess

Daniel Cormier's wrestling background is undeniably dominant. His takedown efficiency and control on the ground are significant assets. His wrestling dominance could be a crucial factor in dictating the pace and outcome of the fight.

• Successful Takedowns: Cormier has consistently demonstrated his ability to take opponents down, controlling the fight on the mat. His takedowns against opponents like Gustafsson and Glover Teixeira exemplify his prowess.
• Ground Control: Once on the ground, Cormier excels at maintaining control, utilizing his superior wrestling to prevent reversals and inflict damage through ground and pound.
• Ground-and-Pound: Cormier's ground-and-pound is precise and effective, wearing down opponents and creating opportunities for submissions or knockouts.

Cormier's Striking and Cardio

While primarily known for his wrestling, Cormier's striking has significantly improved. His boxing technique, combined with improved striking defense, presents a well-rounded attack. His exceptional cardio allows him to maintain a high pace throughout the fight, a crucial advantage against a powerful puncher like Johnson.

• Striking Accuracy: Cormier’s improved striking accuracy allows him to land significant strikes, even while maintaining defensive awareness.
• Boxing Technique: Cormier's fundamental boxing skills give him an edge in exchanges, making him a dangerous opponent standing up.
• Cardio Advantage: Cormier's exceptional stamina allows him to dictate the pace and avoid tiring in later rounds, unlike his previous opponent.

Cormier's Potential Weaknesses

Despite his strengths, Cormier does have vulnerabilities. A potent puncher could potentially exploit weaknesses in his striking defense.

• Susceptibility to Power Punches: While Cormier's chin has held up well, a single, perfectly timed power punch from Johnson could shift the momentum of the fight.
• Weaknesses in Striking Defense: While improved, Cormier’s striking defense remains a potential point of exploitation for Johnson's explosive power.

Johnson's Strengths and Weaknesses

Johnson's Explosive Power

Anthony "Rumble" Johnson possesses devastating knockout power – his one-punch knockout potential is perhaps his most significant weapon. This explosive striking is a constant threat, capable of ending the fight instantly.

• Knockout Power: Johnson's knockout power is legendary, with a highlight reel of devastating knockout victories throughout his career.
• One-Punch Knockout Potential: The threat of a single, fight-ending blow is always present when facing "Rumble."
• Power Advantage: Johnson’s raw power gives him a considerable advantage in any striking exchange.

Johnson's Cardio and Ground Game

While Johnson's striking is exceptional, concerns about his cardio and grappling have been raised. His improved grappling defense will be crucial to neutralizing Cormier's wrestling.

• Cardio Concerns: In past fights, Johnson has shown vulnerabilities in his stamina, potentially hindering his performance in later rounds.
• Ground Game Weaknesses: Johnson's ground game is less developed than his striking; his ability to defend takedowns and escape from ground control is paramount against Cormier.
• Improving Cardio: Whether Johnson has addressed his cardio concerns since their last fight is a critical question heading into this rematch.

Johnson's Potential Weaknesses

Cormier can exploit several potential weaknesses in Johnson's fighting style. Johnson's susceptibility to takedowns and lack of ground control could prove decisive.

• Susceptibility to Takedowns: Johnson's wrestling defense will be severely tested against Cormier's takedown ability.
• Lack of Ground Control: If taken down, Johnson's limited ground game leaves him vulnerable to Cormier's superior grappling skills.
• Potential for Being Controlled on the Mat: Cormier's ability to control the fight on the mat could negate Johnson's striking advantage.

Expert Predictions and Fight Outcome

Analyzing the Odds

The betting odds will likely favor Cormier, reflecting his well-rounded skillset and ability to control the fight. However, Johnson's knockout power means an upset is always possible.

Expert Opinions

Many MMA analysts predict a Cormier victory, citing his superior wrestling and cardio. However, some acknowledge Johnson’s one-punch knockout potential as a wild card.

The Likely Scenario

Based on the analysis, a Cormier victory via decision seems the most likely scenario. Cormier's wrestling and cardio should allow him to control the fight and avoid Johnson's power punches. However, a knockout victory for Johnson remains a very real possibility.

Conclusion

Daniel Cormier's wrestling prowess, improved striking, and superior cardio give him a significant advantage over Anthony Johnson. However, Johnson’s explosive power presents a constant threat of an early knockout. Expert predictions lean towards a Cormier victory via decision, but the fight’s unpredictability makes it a must-watch. Don't miss this epic rematch! Tune in to witness Cormier vs. Johnson 2 at UFC 210 and see if our predictions hold true. Stay tuned for more UFC fight previews and expert analysis! Get ready for the ultimate Cormier vs. Johnson showdown!