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

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

4.2

Share

Daniel Cormier's Strengths and Weaknesses

H3: Cormier's Wrestling Prowess: Cormier's wrestling pedigree is undeniable. A former Olympic wrestler, his takedown defense and ground control are elite. He consistently uses his wrestling to dictate the pace and tire out opponents.

• Successful Takedowns: Cormier's takedowns against opponents like Alexander Gustafsson and Jon Jones demonstrate his ability to take the fight to the ground even against elite strikers.
• Grappling Techniques: His mastery of various grappling techniques, including trips, sprawls, and dominant positions, allows him to control opponents and inflict damage on the ground.
• Ground Control: Once on the ground, Cormier is incredibly difficult to escape. He maintains top position effectively, landing significant ground and pound.

H3: Cormier's Striking Improvements: While primarily known for his wrestling, Cormier's striking has shown significant improvement. He displays improved accuracy and power in his punches and has incorporated more effective combinations.

• Improved Footwork: Cormier's footwork is noticeably more precise, allowing for better range management and offensive opportunities.
• Boxing Technique: His boxing has become more refined, with sharper jabs and more powerful hooks.
• Power Punches: Although not a knockout artist, Cormier’s power punches can certainly hurt opponents and set up takedowns.

H3: Cormier's Potential Weaknesses: Despite his improvements, Cormier's chin has been tested in the past. A powerful puncher like Johnson could exploit this vulnerability if he finds an opening.

• Susceptibility to Power Punches: While his chin has held up well, he has been visibly rocked in past fights by powerful strikers.
• Cardio in Later Rounds: While his cardio is generally good, prolonged exchanges could test his stamina, especially against Johnson’s relentless pressure.

Anthony Johnson's Strengths and Weaknesses

H3: Johnson's Devastating Power: Johnson possesses arguably the most devastating knockout power in the light heavyweight division. His one-punch knockout ability is a constant threat.

• Knockout Power: His knockout victories against Glover Teixeira and Jimi Manuwa highlight the sheer power behind his strikes.
• One-Punch KO Potential: One well-placed punch can end the fight instantly. This keeps Cormier on the defensive.
• Intimidation Factor: The fear of his power alone can disrupt an opponent's strategy.

H3: Johnson's Aggressive Fighting Style: Johnson's aggressive style is both his strength and weakness. He pressures opponents relentlessly, forcing them to make mistakes.

• Relentless Pressure: He forces the fight and doesn't let opponents breathe.
• High-Risk, High-Reward: This strategy can lead to quick victories but also leaves him open to counter-attacks and exhaustion.
• Early Finishes: His aggressive style often leads to early finishes, which is great if he connects, but risky if he doesn't.

H3: Johnson's Potential Weaknesses: While his power is undeniable, Johnson's wrestling defense and cardio have been questioned.

• Wrestling Defense: Cormier's superior wrestling could negate Johnson's striking advantage by taking the fight to the ground.
• Cardio: Sustaining his aggressive pace for five rounds has proven challenging in the past.
• Vulnerability on the Ground: Johnson's guard is not impenetrable, and Cormier is masterful in ground and pound.

A Detailed Analysis of the First Fight (UFC 187)

At UFC 187, Cormier dominated the first fight through superior wrestling and ground control. Johnson's power was neutralized by Cormier's takedowns and ground game. Cormier secured a unanimous decision victory.

• Cormier's Strategy: Cormier successfully used his wrestling to control the pace and avoid Johnson's power punches.
• Johnson's Strategy: Johnson's strategy failed to counter Cormier's wrestling and he struggled to implement his offense.
• Potential Strategic Changes: We might see Johnson attempting more takedown defense and improved striking accuracy in the rematch. Cormier might prioritize keeping the fight on the feet for more of the fight if he judges that Johnson's striking is improved.

Predictions and Fight Outcome

Considering their strengths and weaknesses, a Cormier victory by decision or late stoppage is the most likely outcome. Johnson's knockout power remains a threat, but Cormier's superior wrestling and improved striking makes him the favorite.

• Prediction: Cormier wins via unanimous decision, potentially with a late round takedown to secure a dominant scorecard.
• Possible Scenarios: A knockout victory for Johnson is a possibility, but less likely due to Cormier's improved defense.
• Supporting Evidence: Cormier's superior wrestling and ground control significantly reduces Johnson's chances of a knockout, whilst his improved striking makes a points victory highly probable.

Conclusion

The UFC 210 Cormier vs Johnson rematch promises a captivating clash of styles. While Johnson's knockout power is a constant threat, Cormier's wrestling and improved striking give him a significant advantage. This fight boils down to whether Johnson can improve his wrestling defense and cardio, or if Cormier can continue to neutralize his power. Don't miss UFC 210! Share your predictions for the UFC 210 Cormier vs Johnson fight in the comments below and keep following for more in-depth UFC coverage and analysis. What are your predictions for this crucial Cormier vs. Johnson rematch? Let's discuss!