Cormier's Stance on Jon Jones' GOAT Status

• 🎯 Daniel Cormier believes that due to steroid use, Jon Jones cannot be considered the greatest of all time (GOAT).
• 💡 He acknowledges Jones as the greatest talent the sport has ever seen, possessing an unparalleled arsenal of skills.
• 🧠 Steroids are seen as a significant advantage in fighting, providing enhanced strength, speed, endurance, and recovery, allowing for more intense and prolonged training.

The Impact of Steroids in Fighting

• ⚡ Cormier explains that steroids enable fighters to train harder for longer periods, which is crucial for growth and improvement.
• ⚠️ He contrasts his own experience at 36, where recovery was a limitation, with Jones at 28, who could push harder due to potential steroid use.
• 🚫 The core issue for Cormier is that a fighter's name being associated with steroids disqualifies them from GOAT status, especially in a sport like fighting.

Cormier's Personal Experience with Jon Jones

• 💔 Cormier recounts the heartbreak of finding out about Jon Jones' positive test before their scheduled fight, comparing it to a devastating personal loss.
• 🗓️ The cancellation of UFC 200 and the subsequent fight against Anderson Silva on short notice are detailed, highlighting the emotional and logistical turmoil.
• 🤕 Cormier describes being knocked out by Jon Jones, including the disorientation and repeated questioning of what happened, emphasizing the physical and mental toll.

Jon Jones' Athleticism and Talent

• 🏆 Despite his stance on steroids, Cormier concedes that Jon Jones is the most talented fighter in mixed martial arts history, citing his length, skills, and fight IQ.
• 👨‍👦 He notes Jones' athletic family background, with brothers playing in the NFL, as evidence of his natural athleticism.
• 🚫 However, Cormier refuses to place Jones on his personal GOAT Mount Rushmore due to the steroid association, differentiating it from other sports where PED use might be viewed differently.

The Future of Heavyweight Division

• ⚔️ Cormier discusses the potential of Tom Aspinall as a top heavyweight contender, highlighting his skills and recent impressive wins.
• 🤔 He expresses a desire to see Jon Jones fight Aspinall, acknowledging that while he believes Jones would likely win, the matchup is compelling.
• 🗣️ Cormier also touches on the dynamics with Dana White and the potential matchmaking decisions for Jon Jones' return.