Daniel Cormier Vows to Protect Ben Askren from Nate Diaz’s Bold Threat

Daniel Cormier weighs in on Nate Diaz and Ben Askren’s renewed beef while 'Funky' continues his recovery from life-saving surgery.

Daniel Cormier Vows to Protect Ben Askren from Nate Diaz’s Bold Threat

Daniel Cormier backs Ben Askren against Nate Diaz (via X)

It’s been some time since Nate Diaz appeared in competitive action following his loss against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. However, that absence has not stopped him from making headlines through controversial opinions and public beef.

Recently, the veteran had a dispute with former UFC fighter Ben Askren, which forced his close friend and fellow UFC legend, Daniel Cormier, to intervene. For the unversed, Askren and Cormier run a successful YouTube show where they regularly discuss fighters, controversies, and trends across the MMA community.

Last week, ‘Funky’ spoke about Diaz, calling the Stockton native average while pointing toward his many losses inside the Octagon. Naturally, the Stockton native later responded angrily, threatening to slap Askren, a post that quickly spread everywhere and promoted online discussions.

Recently, Askren and Cormier revisited the issue, with DC suggesting he would defend his friend against Diaz. 

I gotta help you, I can’t let him slap you

Daniel Cormier via YouTube 

As fans are aware, Ben Askren recently underwent a double lung transplant after severe complications left doctors fearing he might not survive. He later revealed the surgery was successful, but recovery remained emotional and filled with constant uncertainty and gratitude.

Fans, fighters, and former rivals flooded social media with prayers, encouragement, and heartfelt messages supporting his inspiring fight back.

Daniel Cormier was one of the first ones to spread awareness about Askren’s condition on social media, and both have a long relationship. Diaz has a long-standing beef with Daniel Cormier’s close friends Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev. Last year, Makhachev and Diaz shocked fans by throwing bottles during a heated press conference confrontation in front of cameras.

Diaz has never hidden his opinions, often criticizing their camp while maintaining his reputation for being outspoken and confrontational. Given their mutual loyalty, many believe the conflict with Diaz carries deeper emotional and professional roots than expected. 

Daniel Cormier reacts to Jon Jones latest insults 

Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones recently confronted each other at the RAF, instantly reviving their legendary rivalry. Both fighters appeared tense, exchanging sharp words while cameras captured every uncomfortable moment between the longtime rivals.

Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones face to face
Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones face-to-face (via X)

Cormier confidently claimed he would defeat Jones in a wrestling match, reminding everyone about his Olympic-level grappling background. Jones responded aggressively, calling Cormier a “di**head“, showing that their rivalry still carries intense personal bitterness years later. According to ‘Bones,’ DC still uses his name to get clout on social media. 

The exchange quickly spread online, with fans debating whether either legend could truly dominate inside a pure wrestling contest. In a recent interview, Cormier discussed his experience filming with Jones, admitting the atmosphere felt awkward but strangely familiar too.

We were around each other every single day, and we were cordial. There were times when Jon and I actually laughed at stuff, but if I didn’t have to be around him…We spoke negatively about each other’s families. We had a nasty, nasty situation. He cheated constantly. I don’t have to let him off the hook or be his friend.

Daniel Cormier via The Ariel Helwani Show 

Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier fought twice in the UFC, creating one of mixed martial arts’ most intense rivalries. Jones won both bouts at UFC 182 and UFC 214, respectively, including a controversial knockout in the latter, though later overturned to a no-contest after failed drug testing results.

Cormier remains respected for perseverance, while debates over PED allegations continue to shape opinions about Jones’ complicated legacy today.

Currently, Jones is eyeing the UFC White House event and plans to fight the reigning light heavyweight champion, Alex Pereira. DC has also shared his insights and believes that if Pereira beats Jones, he will be one of the GOATS of MMA. 

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