The feud between Daniel Cormier and Derrick Lewis brings a compelling mix of professional rivalry and personal animosity, making it one of the more intriguing storylines in MMA today
While it’s unclear if they’ll ever step into the octagon together again, their words alone have captured the attention of fans.
As both fighters continue their respective journeys, their rivalry serves as a reminder of the intense personal dynamics that can arise within the fight game. Whether this feud finds closure remains uncertain, but it undeniably adds to the rich tapestry of MMA’s ongoing legacy.
As fight night approaches, both Derrick Lewis and Jhonata Diniz are preparing to leave it all in the Octagon. The clash of Lewis’s knockout power and Diniz’s kickboxing technique creates an intriguing storyline that could go in many directions.
Whether Lewis lands another knockout or Diniz’s precision striking prevails, fans are in for a thrilling bout that showcases the diversity and excitement of the UFC’s heavyweight division.
The anticipation is building for what could be one of the most memorable fights of UFC Edmonton, with both fighters poised to make a lasting impression.
Also Read: Daniel Cormier Reacts to Chael Sonnen’s Bold Statement on Alex Pereira Being Best Heavyweight
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Daniel Cormier vs. Derrick Lewis: Resurfacing Rivalry
The rivalry between former UFC Heavyweight Champion Daniel Cormier and Derrick “The Black Beast” Lewis is one that has lingered in the minds of fans, and recent comments indicate it may not be entirely behind them.1
Since their heavyweight title clash in 2018, tensions have simmered between the two, with Lewis most recently reigniting the feud by calling out Cormier in a way that left fans shocked and intrigued.
Let’s delve into the history, key issues, and recent developments in this high-profile MMA feud.
— Derrick Lewis (@Thebeast_ufc) April 14, 2024
The Origins of the Rivalry: UFC 230 Heavyweight Showdown
The origins of the Cormier-Lewis rivalry trace back to their fight at UFC 230 in November 2018.
Cormier, the reigning heavyweight champion at the time, faced off against Lewis in a title bout that showcased their vastly different fighting styles.
Cormier’s wrestling acumen and control in the octagon were pitted against Lewis’s raw power and knockout ability.
Ultimately, Cormier emerged victorious with a second-round submission, using his grappling skills to wear Lewis down. The loss left Lewis feeling unresolved about their fight, and it appears that defeat still doesn’t sit well with him, even years later.
Derrick Lewis’s Call-Out: Unfinished Chapter
Derrick Lewis has never been one to mince words, and during a UFC Edmonton media event, he was candid about his desire for a rematch against Cormier.2
When asked about a potential opponent, he swiftly named Cormier, openly questioning whether fans even liked the former champion.
“That one still doesn’t sit right with me,” he admitted, alluding to their UFC 230 clash and adding, “I told DC to his face that he’s a piece of sh*t.”
This blunt statement, laced with profanity, highlighted the raw tension Lewis still feels. It’s not just about the loss; it’s about something more personal and unresolved for him.
The Popeyes Chicken Incident: An Unusual Catalyst
- One of the more unconventional sources of friction between Cormier and Lewis lies in a seemingly trivial incident involving Popeyes chicken.
- Known for his love of the popular fast-food chain, Lewis took offense when he perceived Cormier to be disrespecting Popeyes.
- In Lewis’s eyes, Cormier’s jest crossed a line, further intensifying his frustration. “DC knows why,” Lewis remarked, suggesting that this perceived slight added fuel to the fire. While this may seem like a minor issue, it has somehow become symbolic in the rift between the two fighters.
- In a recent conversation on The Ariel Helwani Show, Cormier addressed Lewis’s remarks, sharing his side of the story.
- He speculated that Lewis might still be upset over some of his post-fight comments, particularly those made after Lewis suffered a series of losses.
- Cormier had been critical, even suggesting that Lewis consider retirement following a third consecutive loss against Serghei Spivac.
- Cormier stated, “I was pretty hard on him about retiring because he had lost a couple fights,” adding that he was merely “telling the truth.”
- In Cormier’s view, his comments were honest and intended to encourage Lewis to think about his future, but it seems Lewis interpreted them differently.
From Fighter to Commentator
Since retiring, Cormier has shifted into a prominent role as an MMA commentator, a move that hasn’t been entirely smooth.
As a commentator, Cormier is tasked with analyzing and critiquing fighters he once shared the octagon with, leading to situations where his words may carry unintended weight.
This role has sometimes put him at odds with other fighters, who might perceive his critiques as personal attacks.
In this case, Cormier’s remarks about Lewis’s career choices seem to have hit a sore spot, leading to the current animosity.
Derrick Lewis’s Career Trajectory
A Fighter Seeking Redemption
Lewis’s call-out and anger toward Cormier go beyond their personal dynamic; they reflect a deeper frustration within his career.3
Despite being a beloved figure in MMA, Lewis has faced struggles, with mixed results in recent fights. The loss to Cormier at UFC 230 marked a pivotal moment, and subsequent losses added pressure.
However, Lewis’s resilience and his ability to pull off jaw-dropping knockouts have kept fans invested. His feud with Cormier, therefore, represents more than just a grudge match—it’s a potential chance for Lewis to reclaim a sense of personal and professional redemption.
The Weight of Words: Criticism and Respect in MMA Culture
Criticism among fighters and commentators is a common part of MMA culture, and in many cases, it fosters growth or competition.
Yet, the manner in which criticism is delivered can have lasting effects. In Lewis’s case, Cormier’s comments on his career trajectory seem to have hit a nerve, sparking a backlash rooted in respect.
As a fighter, Lewis likely felt that Cormier’s words undermined his potential, adding an emotional element to their rivalry.
Respect is paramount in MMA, where fighters undergo grueling training and battle adversity—sometimes, words of criticism are taken deeply to heart.
Also Read: Daniel Cormier Envisions Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall as a Light Heavyweight Showdown
Derrick Lewis: Fans Reaction
Social Media Reactions to the Feud
- The Cormier-Lewis feud has naturally drawn the attention of MMA fans and analysts alike, many of whom have taken to social media to weigh in.
- Opinions are divided; some fans side with Lewis, empathizing with his frustration over Cormier’s remarks, while others support Cormier, viewing his criticism as fair and constructive.
- Social media has amplified the conflict, with each new interview or tweet intensifying fan reactions.
- In today’s connected age, the line between personal and professional is blurred, with public figures like Cormier and Lewis forced to confront both praise and criticism on a much larger stage.
- A rematch between Cormier and Lewis may seem improbable at first, given Cormier’s retirement and his focus on commentary.
- However, stranger things have happened in the UFC, where unfinished rivalries have sometimes led to fighters returning for high-profile bouts.
- Fans are undoubtedly curious about whether Cormier would entertain the idea, if only to finally put the bad blood to rest.
- With both fighters carrying scores to settle, a second showdown could offer resolution and draw a massive audience, but it remains to be seen if Cormier would step back into the octagon for this purpose.
The Legacy of the Cormier-Lewis Rivalry
The Cormier-Lewis rivalry highlights MMA’s evolution, where rivalries are no longer confined to the octagon.
With fighters now having multiple platforms—media appearances, social media, and podcasts—their rivalries extend beyond their fights, impacting fans and the sport’s culture.
The tension between Cormier and Lewis reflects this trend, as fighters navigate their roles in and out of the octagon.
Ultimately, Cormier’s legacy as a two-division champion and Lewis’s reputation as a knockout artist are both secure, but their rivalry adds a layer of drama to each fighter’s career.
Derrick Lewis: Previews Highly Anticipated Clash
UFC heavyweight veteran Derrick Lewis is set to step back into the Octagon at UFC Fight Night this Saturday, facing off against Brazilian kickboxer Jhonata Diniz.
The event, taking place at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Canada, promises to deliver electrifying action with this heavyweight matchup as a potential highlight.
Known for his powerful knockouts and record-breaking achievements in the UFC, Lewis enters the bout with confidence, despite the formidable challenge posed by Diniz’s striking skills.
Here’s a look at what to expect from this fight and how each fighter is preparing for the showdown.
Derrick Lewis: At Golf Court
Derrick Lewis went to his nearest golf court for some golf practice and shared his skillful shorts with his insta followers.
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Analyzing the Fighters’ Styles: Striking vs. Power
In the cage, the stylistic matchup between Lewis and Diniz could dictate the outcome of the fight. While Lewis is famous for his knockout power, Diniz’s striking is rooted in the technical mastery of kickboxing.
Diniz’s approach often involves using well-timed kicks and precise punches to disrupt his opponent’s rhythm and dictate the pace of the fight.
On the other hand, Lewis’s game plan typically revolves around waiting for the perfect moment to unleash his power, often leading to a spectacular finish.
One potential strategy for Lewis might be to close the distance quickly, negating Diniz’s range advantage and forcing a more close-range, high-stakes exchange.
For Diniz, footwork and lateral movement could be key in avoiding Lewis’s knockout punches while creating openings for counterattacks.
