Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Daniel Cormier TV - Daniel Cormier GOES BACK AT Jon Jones after CALLING OUT both him and Chael Sonnen
Release Date: June 12, 2025
Host: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Daniel Cormier delves deep into the ongoing tensions between himself, Jon Jones, and Chael Sonnen. The discussion centers around Jon Jones's recent actions and statements, Cormier's response, and the broader implications for their careers and legacies within the UFC.

Main Discussion

Jon Jones's Criticism and Cormier's Response

Daniel Cormier opens the conversation by addressing Jon Jones's recent confrontational behavior towards him and Chael Sonnen. He recalls an incident where he had previously challenged Jon Jones to fight Tom Aspinall, advising Jones to "leave him alone," which Jones took offense to.

"A couple weeks ago, I said to Jon Jones, go fight Tom Aspinall. Leave me alone... Chael and I were discussing Jon Jones last week on our show, and it prompted this."
[04:50]

Jon Jones retaliated on Twitter, expressing his displeasure:

"Jon Jones whip both of y'all."
[09:15]

Cormier criticizes Jones's approach of discussing himself in the third person and questions the integrity of his actions, especially considering the financial successes both have achieved outside the octagon.

"Jon Jones makes more money than me when he fights, and that's it. Outside of that, he ain't getting what me and Chael getting from ESPN, The Volume, DraftKings, Total Wireless, Roses Sparks, Monster Energy. I mean, we over here eating. So that's just false."
[07:30]

Comparing Legacies and Achievements

Cormier emphasizes the impressive resumes of both himself and Jon Jones, arguing that both have unparalleled abilities to attract audiences and sell fights. He asserts that his own achievements and business ventures rival those of Jones.

"Jon Jones's resume matches up with, if not exceeds, everyone in the business... But Daniel Cormier's resume matches up with anybody in the business."
[06:45]

He further highlights Jones's dominance in the UFC, listing his victories over numerous top-tier fighters and questioning why Jones hasn't fought aspiring contenders like Tom Aspinall sooner.

"He went through the old guard, meaning he went through Vitor, he went through Shogun, he went through Rampage... Then he went put the old guard back with Stipe."
[11:20]

The Importance of Fighting and Legacy Management

Cormier discusses the importance of continuing to fight to maintain and enhance one's legacy. He draws parallels with other sports figures like Michael Jordan and Wayne Gretzky, emphasizing that retiring at the right time can preserve one's greatness.

"Show me a great champion. Show me someone who acted like this in their final chapter. Show me someone who refused to play it forward."
[15:10]

He argues that Jon Jones is in a position where he can still fight and cement his legacy by facing emerging talents like Aspinall, rather than sidelining himself with provocations and social media antics.

"If you're the greatest, you go fight him. That's how it works."
[17:55]

Speculations on Future Fights and Outcomes

Cormier speculates on potential outcomes if Jon Jones were to fight Tom Aspinall, weighing the possibilities of Jones being defeated by the younger contender or asserting his dominance further.

"Could Tom Aspinall put him out? Absolutely. Tom Aspinall could put him out. He could shut his lights out... But there's also a possibility that Jones takes him deep into a fight."
[18:10]

He emphasizes the unpredictability of combat sports and the importance of seizing the right moments to fight to maintain one's legacy.

Support for Ben Askren

Towards the latter part of the discussion, Cormier shifts focus to support his friend Ben Askren, who has been facing personal challenges. He expresses solidarity and hope for Askren's recovery, highlighting the tight-knit community within the UFC.

"Ben Askren is a good guy. So pray for Amy, guys. Pray for the kids. Ben, we love you, buddy."
[19:30]

Key Takeaways

1. Legacy and Integrity: Cormier underscores the significance of maintaining integrity and strategically managing one's legacy in the UFC, contrasting his approach with Jon Jones's recent behavior.

2. Financial and Professional Rivalry: Both fighters have achieved substantial financial success outside the octagon, but Cormier challenges the narrative that Jon Jones surpasses him in all aspects.

3. Importance of Continuing to Fight: To solidify their legacies, Cormier advocates for ongoing competition against emerging fighters rather than retreating from the spotlight.

4. Community and Support: The episode highlights the supportive nature of the UFC community, with Cormier expressing concern and solidarity for Ben Askren during his personal struggles.

Concluding Thoughts

Daniel Cormier provides a candid and passionate examination of the current dynamics between himself, Jon Jones, and the broader UFC landscape. By addressing both professional rivalries and personal alliances, Cormier offers listeners an in-depth perspective on what it takes to sustain greatness in the ever-evolving world of mixed martial arts.

Notable Quotes:

• "Jon Jones whip both of y'all."
  — Jon Jones
  [09:15]

• "Show me a great champion. Show me someone who acted like this in their final chapter."
  — Daniel Cormier
  [15:10]

• "If you're the greatest, you go fight him. That's how it works."
  — Daniel Cormier
  [17:55]

• "Ben, we love you, buddy."
  — Daniel Cormier
  [19:30]

This summary encapsulates the essential discussions and sentiments expressed by Daniel Cormier in the episode, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the key themes and personal insights shared during the conversation.