Former UFC dual-champion Daniel Cormier recently sparked a fiery debate by naming his picks for the greatest fighters of all time (GOATs) in each weight class. But here's where it gets controversial: his choices, while undeniably impressive, are sure to ignite passionate discussions among MMA fans worldwide. In a candid interview with Paramount UFC, Cormier didn’t hold back, offering insights that blend personal experience with analytical prowess. Let’s dive into his selections, weight class by weight class, and explore the reasoning behind his picks—some of which might just surprise you.
Featherweight:
Cormier crowned Alexander Volkanovski as the undisputed king, but not without acknowledging the fierce competition. 'It’s a three-way battle between Volkanovski, Jose Aldo, and Max Holloway,' he admitted. What sets Volkanovski apart? His eight title-fight victories, including four wins over Aldo and Holloway—the very fighters often mentioned in the same breath as him. 'When you’ve beaten the other contenders in the conversation multiple times, that’s what makes you the greatest,' Cormier explained.
Lightweight:
Here, Cormier’s choice was unequivocal: Khabib Nurmagomedov. 'Undefeated, undisputed, and the man who beat Conor McGregor in the biggest fight in MMA history,' he stated. That bout sold an astonishing 3.5 million pay-per-views, second only to Mayweather vs. Pacquiao. 'Khabib is the greatest fighter of all time, in my opinion,' Cormier declared, leaving no room for doubt.
Welterweight:
Georges St-Pierre earned Cormier’s nod as the GOAT in this division. 'He was ahead of his time,' Cormier marveled. 'His wrestling, cardio, conditioning, and striking—he had it all. Nobody could touch him.' St-Pierre’s dominance remains unmatched, a testament to his all-around brilliance.
Middleweight:
Cormier’s pick, Anderson Silva, transcended MMA to become a global icon. 'I was at one of his fights, and even Roy Jones Jr. was in the front row, wanting to box him,' Cormier recalled. Silva’s star power and in-ring prowess solidified his place as the middleweight GOAT.
Light Heavyweight:
And this is the part most people miss—Cormier’s choice here is deeply personal. While many would default to Jon Jones, Cormier hesitated due to their contentious history and Jones’s steroid controversy. 'If not Jon, then it’s me,' he admitted candidly. This weight class remains a tricky one, blending legacy with personal rivalry.
Heavyweight:
Cormier gave the nod to Stipe Miocic, the man who defeated him twice. 'Stipe beat me fair and square,' he acknowledged. Unlike Jon Jones, Miocic’s victories came without controversy, earning him Cormier’s respect and the heavyweight GOAT title in his eyes.
Controversy & Comment Hooks:
Cormier’s selections are bold, but they’re sure to divide opinions. Is Volkanovski truly the featherweight GOAT over Aldo and Holloway? Does Khabib’s undefeated record overshadow McGregor’s cultural impact? And what about Jon Jones—does his steroid use disqualify him from GOAT status, or is his skill undeniable? What do you think? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take on who deserves the GOAT title in each weight class!
