The animosity between former UFC light heavyweight rivals Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier has once again ignited, proving that even years removed from their Octagon battles, the tension remains as fierce as ever. This time, it’s not fists doing the talking — it’s public jabs through social media and podcasts.
Jon Jones fires first shot
The latest feud began when UFC heavyweight champion Jones took to X (formerly Twitter) to lash out at Cormier and Chael Sonnen. The two veterans co-host ESPN’s Good Guy/Bad Guy, where they recently offered sharp opinions on Jones' inactivity and reluctance to fight interim champion Tom Aspinall.
Jones didn’t take kindly to the commentary. In a now-viral post, he mocked his former rivals:
"Jon Jones whooped both of y’all, but hey–why not team up on a podcast and gossip about his life? Meanwhile, he’s out here making your annual salary in a week. Stay busy, boys.”
The post immediately stirred debate across the MMA community, with many questioning Jones’ mindset while recovering from injury and avoiding commitment to a unification bout.
Daniel Cormier responds with fire
Never one to stay silent, Daniel Cormier responded directly in a YouTube video on his personal channel. The former double champion didn’t just defend himself — he dismantled Jones’ claim with calm ferocity.
“Jon Jones don’t make more money than me in a week! He makes more money than me, when he fights! We’re over here eating,” said Cormier.
He continued, “The biggest paydays you ever had were directly tied to me! I’m talking about you, and I’m getting paid to talk about you, but I don’t fight no more ’cause all I can really do is talk. That’s what I do.”
Daniel Cormier also pointed out that if he were still an active fighter and holding the heavyweight belt, he wouldn’t have ducked a rising contender like Aspinall.
“If I was still fighting today, and I was still the heavyweight champion and Tom Aspinall was the number one contender, I would’ve already fought him. One thousand percent.”
A battle beyond the cage
While the two men haven’t faced off in years, their rivalry refuses to cool. Jon Jones' inactivity continues to draw criticism, especially as UFC fans grow restless waiting for clarity in the heavyweight division.
Tom Aspinall, holding the interim title, recently revealed he’s been given a fight date by the UFC — though he wouldn’t confirm if Jones is on the other end of that contract. Should Jones step away, the door is wide open for Aspinall to face contenders like Ciryl Gane or Alexander Volkov for the undisputed strap.