Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez opens up about Daniel Cormier, revealing his early concerns about fighting Brock Lesnar
One of the biggest potential matchups in Ultimate Fighting Championship history nearly featured Daniel Cormier and Brock Lesnar. The bout was heavily teased after Cormier knocked out Stipe Miocic to win the heavyweight title, leading to an intense post-fight altercation inside the Octagon.
Despite massive initial hype, the fight never happened because Lesnar chose not to return to mixed martial arts and instead stayed with World Wrestling Entertainment. Lesnar officially finished his MMA career following a bout against Mark Hunt at UFC 200, leaving fans to wonder about the dream matchup.
Addressing the situation during an interview on The Shawn Ryan Show, former heavyweight titleholder Cain Velasquez shed light on how his longtime teammate truly felt about facing the WWE star, according to information published by bjpenn.
Cain Velasquez discusses Brock Lesnar athletic abilities
During his appearance, Velasquez praised the physical prowess of his former opponent, describing him as an exceptional athlete. He noted that Lesnar possessed immense strength, a background as a national champion wrestler, and NFL experience on a practice squad.
Weighing in near the 265-pound heavyweight limit while cutting considerable weight, Lesnar represented a terrifying physical specimen in his prime. Velasquez explained that despite having a strategic recipe with his coaches to secure victory, outsiders looked at the matchup with extreme worry.
Daniel Cormier private concerns about fighting Brock Lesnar
While fans anticipated a brutal collision, Velasquez revealed that Cormier privately harbored serious doubts about stepping into the cage against the former champion. Cormier later confessed to his teammate that he secretly hoped to avoid a fight with someone possessing such intimidating physical traits.
Cormier admitted to Velasquez that standing face to face with the massive heavyweight made him hesitant. Recognizing the raw power packed into Lesnar, Cormier acknowledged that absorbing a clean strike from him would spell serious trouble during any potential encounter.
The reality of stepping into the Octagon with a giant
The aura surrounding Lesnar created a psychological hurdle even for elite competitors. Velasquez recalled how people around his camp worried about the dangers involved, with many questioning the wisdom of facing such a massive athlete.
Although the blockbuster showdown between Cormier and Lesnar ultimately evaporated due to contractual shifts, the backstage drama and subsequent revelations continue to captivate combat sports fans looking back at a legendary era of the heavyweight division.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Daniel Cormier ever fight Brock Lesnar in the UFC?
No, Daniel Cormier and Brock Lesnar never fought in the Octagon, despite an intense post-fight altercation after Cormier won the heavyweight title.
Why did the fight between Daniel Cormier and Brock Lesnar fall through?
The fight never materialized because Brock Lesnar chose not to return to mixed martial arts, opting instead to remain under contract with the WWE.
What did Cain Velasquez say about Brock Lesnar on The Shawn Ryan Show?
Cain Velasquez discussed Brock Lesnar being a phenomenal athlete and revealed that Daniel Cormier privately admitted he did not want to fight him.
