Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Daniel Cormier TV - Daniel Cormier CLAPS BACK at Jon Jones CALLOUT: "Go Fight Tom Aspinall"
Release Date: May 17, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the spotlight is on former UFC Heavyweight Champion Daniel Cormier as he addresses recent comments made by his long-time rival, Jon Jones. The discussion dives deep into their past rivalry, Cormier's retirement, and his bold callout for Jon Jones to face current heavyweight contender Tom Aspinall.

Addressing Jon Jones' Comments (00:30 - 05:20)

Daniel Cormier opens the conversation by tackling the remarks Jon Jones made about potentially having beaten him more decisively in the heavyweight division. Cormier emphasizes his retirement and lack of interest in rekindling past rivalries.

Key Quote:

“I have no desire to fight Jon Jones. I have no desire to fight anyone.”
(02:21)

Cormier highlights the passage of time, noting that their last fight was eight years ago when he was actively competing. He stresses that both fighters have evolved, with Jones now holding the heavyweight title and Cormier focusing on his career as a broadcaster.

Key Quote:

“I'm retired, I'm done. I'm 46, I'm washed up. I'm a broadcaster.”
(02:30)

Challenging Jon Jones to Fight Tom Aspinall (02:50 - 04:15)

Instead of entertaining hypothetical matchups with Cormier himself, he challenges Jon Jones to face Tom Aspinall, a rising star in the heavyweight division. Cormier argues that Aspinall is eager and ready for the fight, making it a more legitimate and timely challenge.

Key Quote:

“Fight the dude that's actually wanting to fight you, Tom Aspinall.”
(02:45)

Cormier elaborates on Aspinall’s potential, describing him as a formidable opponent who could pose a significant challenge to Jones. He suggests that this fight would be more beneficial for both fighters and the UFC landscape.

Key Quote:

“This is not about what may have happened back then. We want to know what's going to happen today.”
(03:30)

Reflections on Fighter Mentality and UFC Dynamics (04:20 - 05:00)

Cormier delves into the mentality of fighters, emphasizing that true champions are never afraid. He compares Jones to other fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev, noting their ability to remain confident and fearless in the cage.

Key Quote:

“Nobody's scared in this fight game.”
(04:50)

He also touches upon the current UFC landscape, highlighting other exciting matchups and encouraging fans to focus on the present and future fights rather than past rivalries.

Promoting Upcoming UFC Events (05:10 - End)

Wrapping up his main discussion, Cormier shifts focus to promote upcoming UFC fights, expressing excitement about the bout between Islam Makhachev and Jack, as well as Ilya vs. Charles. He underscores the thrilling times UFC fans are experiencing and reassures them of more exhilarating fights on the horizon.

Key Quote:

“It's an amazing time to be a UFC fan.”
(04:45)

Cormier concludes by inviting fans to join him at Total Wireless meet-and-greets in Newark and to stay connected through his YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes content as the UFC prepares for these major events.

Conclusion

Daniel Cormier's candid discussion provides clarity on his stance regarding Jon Jones and underscores his support for the current and future talents in the heavyweight division. By proposing a fight between Jones and Aspinall, Cormier not only addresses speculations about his own career but also contributes to shaping the narrative of the UFC's heavyweight landscape.

Notable Highlights:

• Retirement Stance: Cormier firmly states his retirement and disinterest in returning to the octagon (02:21).
• Bold Callout: Challenges Jon Jones to fight Tom Aspinall instead of reigniting old rivalries (02:45).
• Fighter Mentality: Emphasizes that top fighters are never truly afraid, highlighting the mentality required to succeed in MMA (04:50).
• Future of UFC: Expresses enthusiasm for upcoming UFC events and encourages fans to embrace new matchups (04:45).

This episode offers fans an in-depth look into Daniel Cormier’s perspectives on his past rivalry with Jon Jones, his views on the current state of the heavyweight division, and his vision for the future of UFC matchups.