Daniel Cormier has recently joined the ongoing debate between boxing and MMA. It all started when Shakur Stevenson and Terence Crawford appeared on Adin Ross’ stream and claimed that boxing and MMA are not even close in terms of skill level. This statement sparked a heated discussion among fans and fighters, with UFC welterweight Joaquin Buckley being one of the first to respond.
Buckley took to social media to express his disagreement with Stevenson and Crawford’s views. He argued that MMA fighters are just as skilled as boxers and that the two sports cannot be compared. This led to many others, including Daniel Cormier, sharing their thoughts on the matter.
Cormier, a former UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight champion, has always been an advocate for MMA and its fighters. So, it was no surprise when he took a stand on the boxing vs MMA debate. In a recent interview, Cormier made it clear that he believes MMA fighters are just as skilled as boxers, if not more.
He pointed out that MMA fighters have to be well-rounded in various aspects of combat sports, including striking, grappling, and submissions, while boxers only focus on one aspect. This makes MMA fighters more versatile and adaptable in the ring, which is a testament to their skill level.
Cormier also addressed the argument that MMA fighters wouldn’t stand a chance against boxers in a pure boxing match. He stated that while it may be true in some cases, it doesn’t mean that MMA fighters are not skilled boxers. He reminded everyone that MMA fighters train in boxing as well and have the ability to hold their own in a boxing ring.
The former champion also highlighted the fact that MMA fighters have to deal with a much wider range of techniques and strategies compared to boxers. In MMA, fighters have to be prepared for anything, including punches, kicks, takedowns, and submissions. This requires a higher level of skill and adaptability, which is not seen in boxing.
Cormier’s stance on the debate is not just based on his own experience as an MMA fighter, but also on the success of MMA fighters in boxing matches. He mentioned the recent crossover fights between MMA fighters and boxers, such as Conor McGregor vs Floyd Mayweather and Ben Askren vs Jake Paul. While these fights may not have ended in favor of the MMA fighters, they still showed that they have the skills to compete with top boxers.
In addition, Cormier also brought up the fact that many MMA fighters have successfully transitioned to boxing and have had successful careers. He mentioned names like Holly Holm, who was a former UFC champion and is now a successful boxer, and Heather Hardy, who has competed in both sports at a high level.
Cormier’s statements have received a lot of support from the MMA community, with many agreeing that MMA fighters are just as skilled as boxers. However, there are still some who believe that boxing is a superior sport and that MMA fighters would not be able to compete in a pure boxing match.
But regardless of personal opinions, one thing is clear – both boxing and MMA require a high level of skill and dedication. Each sport has its own unique challenges and techniques, and it is impossible to say which one is better. Instead of pitting the two against each other, we should appreciate and respect the athletes who compete in both sports and recognize their skills and accomplishments.
In the end, it is up to the individual to decide which sport they prefer. Some may prefer the technicality of boxing, while others may enjoy the excitement of MMA. But one thing is for sure – both sports have their own merits and should not be compared or belittled. As Daniel Cormier said, “Skill is skill, and it should be respected no matter what sport it is showcased in.”
