Daniel Cormier is the third-best pound-for-pound fighter in the world in the UFC right now. He is in the final stretch of training to face off against Anthony “Rumble” Johnson in a championship rematch on April 8 in Buffalo, New York at UFC 210. Johnson is known for his hard hits while Cormier is widely-regarded as the greatest wrestler in the sport’s history.
Away from the octagon, Cormier has previously said that he is motivated to fight because of his late daughter Kaedyn. In 2003, the infant died in a car accident with an 18-wheeler. The Louisana native is also an avid fan of the New Orleans Saints.
What music do you usually listen to before you get into the octagon?
Well, I usually listen to a lot of R&B, actually. But as far as rap goes, I listen to Migos, Drake, Lil’ Wayne. I really liked DJ Khaled’s last album. I’m more of a hyper guy, so a lot of the times, I would need more calm music to level myself out.
What are some foods that you have to avoid during training?
Anything from Louisiana. Anything that I grew up on, I can’t eat during training.
Can you go home during training?
I can’t even go home during training, man. My nutritionist, Dan Lee, has been preparing some meals for me that look like red beans and rice, Louisiana foods, but they really aren’t. I appreciate Dan, but I know that’s not the same thing.
How was it for you growing up in Louisiana?
We didn’t have a bunch. But we had each other. We loved each other. That’s not something everyone can say they grew up with.
If you were surrounded by so much love growing up, what got you into the sport of fighting?
Well, actually I started off wrestling. I wrestled for a while and then there [were a] few months where I just wasn’t doing much [Cormier wrestled for the USA 2003-2008, but was pulled from the 2008 Olympic squad due to kidney failure, an effect from excessive weight cutting]. I realized I couldn’t sit around and play NBA 2K all day. I remember NBA 2009. I played a crazy amount of games online and I was like, “It’s time to get up and do something with meaning.”
How does it feel to be known as arguably the greatest wrestler in the history of the sport?
It’s a great honor … I never imagined that I’d be mentioned with those other guys who came before me.
How has your broadcasting career been going?
I love it. I’ve always been a guy that has had a big personality. The way I talk to my friends about fighting is the way I talk about fighting on the air, which I think people can connect with because it’s genuine.
Do you think broadcasting while still being an active fighter can be distracting?
Not really. I’ve done broadcasting for a few years now and the guys that do it have their eyes on the prize. Broadcasting is cool, but the life of a UFC champion is great.
Why do you believe that Daniel Cormier will win Cormier/Johnson II?
Just the training. We believe in each other. We prepare for victory. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. We have guys that leave their families for a few months because they care for me. The best way that I can show that I appreciate them for their sacrifices is to go out there and win.
During such intense training, do you ever get a moment to relax or unwind?
Oh, yeah. I just bought a virtual reality set. Literally, the other day I was Batman. I had the helmet on and the headphones in. I was beating all of the bad guys, and I was literally Batman. That’s my world of escape, but when I take the headset off, then I’m back to the world where I’m the father of my kids.
How has the loss of your daughter affected your approach to the sport?
Well, it affected my approach to life. It made me appreciate life more. It motivated me to be a better man. I take nothing for granted now.
What are some of Rumble Johnson’s best strengths?
He’s a big, strong guy. He’s got confidence going out of his ears. He’s a good fighter. He’s a good guy.
