John Locher/Associated Press
Javier Mendez, the coach for UFC neatly-known person Daniel Cormier, believes the old model two-division champion would prolong his retirement for a possibility at a third war with Jon Jones.
Mendez spoke with ESPN’s Brett Okamoto in regards to the choice of a 2d straight trilogy war for Cormier, who’s scheduled for a rubber match with Stipe Miocic at UFC 252 subsequent Saturday:
In June, the 41-year-old Louisiana native launched he used to be planning to retire from MMA, no matter the kill consequence within the heavyweight title conflict with Miocic.
His intense contention with Jones will constantly be talked about whereas discussing his terrific occupation, on the choice hand, and or no longer it is no shock they’re tranquil being linked within the closing phases of DC’s occupation.
Cormier told Damon Martin of MMA Combating the 2 will never be simplest chums however that he respects the battles he is had with Jones inside of the Octagon.
“I pause respect him as a competitor. I never stated I did no longer,” he stated. “That’s where it will get all at a loss for words after they focus on this thing between him and I. I never no longer respected him as a competitor. It used to be the total numerous stuff I had an argument with. I never did that. Whenever you’d furthermore presumably be a suitable guy, which I strive to pronounce I am, you bellow the truth. You would possibly perchance presumably respect a person for their talents. I pause respect these talents.”
Jones obtained their first meeting by unanimous resolution in January 2015. He knocked out Cormier in a July 2017 rematch, however the kill consequence used to be overturned after he tested sure for a steroid, Turinabol, earlier than the war.
It looks no longer probably Cormier goes to alter his retirement plans, especially if he suffers a 2d straight loss to Miocic subsequent week that can elevate questions on his skill to proceed contending for titles.
Per chance but another conflict with Jones is the singular war that can furthermore web him to change his suggestions. No longer no longer as a lot as Mendez thinks so.
