Daniel Cormier Puts Rivalry Aside and Sympathizes with Jon Jones’ Vulnerable Moment on Russian Reality Show

Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones once had one of the most heated rivalries in UFC history. During their primes, Cormier and Jones were constantly at each other’s throats in the buildup to their UFC 182 and UFC 214 title fights. However, over time, the dynamic shifted away from hostility. They now share a banter-filled acquaintance while serving as opposing coaches on Russian TUF-style reality show.

Cormier and Jones’ rivalry is widely considered one of UFC’s most intense and personal feuds. The two former champions developed deep animosity through repeated verbal and promotional clashes. The hostility escalated during fight week build-ups for UFC 182 and UFC 214. After UFC 214, Jones’ positive drug test overturned the result to a no contest, further frustrating DC and intensifying the rivalry.

Cormier and Jones are currently opposing coaches on the Russian ALF Reality show, where fighters are split into teams under each coach. During a competition, ‘Bones’ was struck in the chest by a football during a challenge and immediately held his chest in pain. He also began coughing after the impact, drawing brief concern during filming. DC reacted with concern despite their long-standing rivalry.

That was crazy, man, but let me tell you something. I like it when Jon Jones hurts, but I feel bad for him now. Jon grabbed his chest and started coughing. It was really bad.

Daniel Cormier via ALF Global

Daniel Cormier sympathizes with Jon Jones after a football struck him in the chest 👏🫡

“I like it when Jon Jones hurts, but I feel bad for him now. Jon grabbed his chest and started coughing. It was really bad.”

Via: ALF GLOBAL pic.twitter.com/hHz0x3obkE

— FREAK.MMA (@FREAKMMA1) May 30, 2026

Cormier’s concern is more understandable given Jones’ recent health revelations. Jones has revealed arthritis and ongoing joint pain affecting his daily life and movement. He has said the condition is painful, but still allows him to remain active in training and preparation. The former two-division champion has also recently announced his official retirement from competition after a long career at the elite level.

The two former rivals frequently engage in banter during the ALF Reality show, showing how their dynamic has shifted. Jones and Cormier now interact in a more playful coaching environment. Recently, the Albuquerque native joked that there is no rivalry left, referencing his two UFC wins over Cormier. The comment was made in a light tone but still reflected their competitive history.

Daniel Cormier is 46 years old, and Jon Jones is 38 years old, both with long combat sports careers. DC retired in 2020 after competing at the elite level. Jones has fought across two divisions with championship success. Both have accumulated significant physical wear from years of competition. Cormier has also dealt with injuries from his fighting career. Age and mileage now make high-intensity activity difficult.

Daniel Cormier weighs in on UFC superstar’s return

Conor McGregor remains one of the biggest UFC superstars despite nearly five years out of competition. The Irishman has stayed relevant through his legacy, global popularity, and media presence. His career has also included multiple controversies during his long absence from fighting. He is now set to return to the UFC after this layoff, as he is preparing for a rematch against Max Holloway at UFC 329.

Daniel Cormier has often been a major voice when discussing McGregor’s UFC career and legacy. Cormier has said McGregor’s lifestyle outside the octagon hurt his long-term career trajectory. He pointed to inactivity, injuries, and distractions that slowed his momentum after his peak years. As McGregor prepares for his return, Cormier has also weighed in on his chances against Holloway at UFC 329.

I think we’ll see the most focused and committed Conor McGregor we’ve ever seen. But with the injuries, the long layoff, the weight fluctuations, and everything else… I don’t know if that Conor, even more motivated than ever, is enough to beat Max Holloway. You don’t improve at something by not doing it. You can train all you want, but it’s been about five years since he last stepped inside an octagon.

Daniel Cormier via his YouTube channel

🚨 Daniel Cormier has serious doubts about Conor McGregor’s return ahead of #UFC329:

“I think we’ll see the most focused and committed Conor McGregor we’ve ever seen. But with the injuries, the long layoff, the weight fluctuations and everything else… I don’t know if that… pic.twitter.com/f2NIXIqbkm

— The Fight Fanatic (@FightFanatic_) May 29, 2026

Conor McGregor appears fully focused on his UFC return after nearly five years away from competition. ‘The Notorious One’ has released training footage showing sharp form and strong physical condition. He has spoken about adopting a more measured and controlled approach for his comeback. It remains to be seen whether Daniel Cormier’s prediction proves accurate against Max Holloway at UFC 329.

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