Cormier Vs. Johnson 2 (UFC 210): Predictions And Pre-Fight Analysis

Axel S�rensen

4 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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Cormier's Strengths and Weaknesses

Daniel Cormier, the reigning champion, brought a formidable skillset to the Octagon. His wrestling pedigree and evolving striking game made him a dangerous opponent for anyone.

Cormier's Wrestling Dominance

Cormier's Olympic-level wrestling is his foundational strength. His takedown ability is exceptional, allowing him to control the pace and dictate the fight's location.

• Dominant takedowns against: Alexander Gustafsson (UFC 192), Dan Henderson (UFC 173), and numerous others throughout his career. He consistently uses a variety of takedowns, including single and double legs, trips, and sprawls to control the fight.
• Superior top control: Once he secures a takedown, Cormier is adept at maintaining top control, utilizing ground-and-pound and controlling his opponent's posture.

Cormier's Striking Improvements

While initially known for his wrestling, Cormier's striking has significantly improved over the years. His power, accuracy, and technical proficiency have become increasingly refined.

• Improved boxing: His boxing has become more precise and powerful, evidenced by his increased knockout power.
• Better footwork: His improved footwork allows him to maintain distance and create angles for strikes while defending takedowns.
• Effective combinations: He now strings together effective combinations, creating openings for takedowns or keeping opponents at bay.

Cormier's Potential Weaknesses

Despite his improvements, Cormier possesses vulnerabilities. His chin, while durable, has been tested in the past.

• Susceptibility to power punches: While his chin is strong, a single, perfectly timed power punch could potentially end the fight. Johnson's power presents a clear threat here.
• Potential grappling weaknesses: While his wrestling is superior, highly skilled grapplers with creative submissions could pose a threat. While unlikely against Johnson, it remains a potential vulnerability.

Johnson's Strengths and Weaknesses

Anthony "Rumble" Johnson, known for his explosive power and aggressive style, was a constant threat to Cormier's title reign.

Johnson's Devastating Power

Johnson's knockout power is legendary in the UFC. He possesses the ability to end a fight with a single, perfectly timed strike.

• One-punch knockout power: His highlight reel is filled with brutal knockouts, showcasing his devastating power. He's capable of ending a fight at any moment.
• Early finish potential: Johnson's ability to finish fights early is a key aspect of his fighting style and his biggest asset.

Johnson's Aggressive Fighting Style

Johnson fights with relentless aggression. While this style is effective, it also has drawbacks.

• High-risk, high-reward approach: This strategy yields high rewards but risks significant energy expenditure and potential openings for the opponent.
• Stamina concerns: Johnson's aggressive style can lead to stamina issues if the fight stretches into later rounds.

Johnson's Grappling Defense

Johnson's grappling defense is a crucial aspect to consider in this fight against a wrestling powerhouse.

• Vulnerable to takedowns: While he possesses decent takedown defense, Cormier's superior wrestling presents a significant challenge.
• Difficulty with top control: When taken down, Johnson's ability to escape from Cormier's formidable top control remains questionable.

Comparative Analysis: Cormier vs. Johnson 2 Style Matchup

The stylistic matchup between Cormier and Johnson was a compelling contrast. Cormier's wrestling versus Johnson's power punching created a tactical chess match. The key would be Cormier's ability to take down and control Johnson, preventing the devastating power shots. Johnson, in contrast, needed to keep the fight standing and land a clean knockout blow. The first fight provided valuable insight; Johnson's early aggression was nearly successful but ultimately failed due to Cormier's superior wrestling.

Predictions and Likely Fight Outcome

Based on the analysis, Cormier is predicted to win the rematch via decision. Johnson's power presents a constant threat, but Cormier's wrestling and improved striking make him the more complete fighter.

• Cormier wins via decision (75%): Cormier's ability to control the pace and dictate where the fight takes place gives him a considerable edge.
• Johnson wins via KO (25%): This scenario relies on Johnson landing a perfectly timed and powerful knockout punch in the early rounds.

Conclusion: Cormier vs. Johnson 2: The Ultimate Rematch

Cormier vs. Johnson 2 was a highly anticipated rematch that saw the champion, Cormier, utilizing his superior wrestling to neutralize Johnson's devastating power. The pre-fight analysis highlighted Cormier's well-rounded skillset and superior wrestling against Johnson's explosive power, ultimately predicting a Cormier victory. This UFC 210 main event underscored the importance of strategy and adaptability in MMA. What are your predictions? Share your thoughts and engage in the discussion using #CormierVsJohnson, #UFC210, and #MMA!