Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
It’s been a little under 48 hours that the dust has settled inside Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., and the now-former Heavyweight champion, Daniel Cormier, has had some time to think about his knockout loss to Stipe Miocic (highlights) a bit more.
Despite the tough loss, “DC” put on his brave face and kept it professional, attending the post-fight press conference and answering all the questions asked of him. He even took the time to do a post-fight interview with Joe Rogan immediately after the fight.
During both opportunities to do so, Cormier did not commit to his fighting future or if he would indeed retire from mixed martial arts (MMA). And earlier today (Mon. Aug., 19, 2019), “DC” took to social media to issue a statement following his tough defeat.
“It’s been a couple of days and I can’t stress the disappointment, I am so sorry to all I have let down. To my wife and kids I am so sorry you guys had to experience that, I never wanted y’all to see that and the hurt you guys showed breaks my heart every time I think about it,” said Daniel on Instagram.
“My coaches I am sorry, I appreciate the work and time you’ve spent with me. My fans, thank you guys for all the love and support you have guided me to all these amazing accomplishments. Stipe Miocic and his team, congratulations on a tremendous victory, you showed so much heart and grit, you are the definition of Cleveland tough,” he added.
“Dana White and all at the ufc thank you all for everything you have done for me and my family. This has been the most amazing journey, I will decide what I am gonna do now, and as soon as I decide you will all know right away. I love you all. DC.”
The loss was just “DC’s” second of his MMA career — not counting his defeat to Jon Jones at UFC 214 that was later ruled a no-contest (NC) — and first at heavyweight. What makes the pill a bit tougher to swallow is the former UFC champ-champ was up on the scorecards going into the fourth round and was seemingly on his way to another win over Stipe.
But in the blink of an eye, Miocic turned the tables and put it on “DC” to reclaims his strap. Much to the delight of the aforementioned Jon Jones, of course.
At 40 years of age, Cormier doesn’t really have much to prove inside the cage, winning several titles and accolades that many can only dream of. That said, the ex-265 and 205-pound champion has previously stated he won’t leave the sport on his back.