Following UFC 227 in Los Angeles that saw long-reigning flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson dethroned by Henry Cejudo in the co-main event, Cormier and broadcast partners Jon Anik and Joe Rogan discussed whether Johnson should get an immediate rematch:
“I love Henry and I love his idea that he wants to be a two-weight champ,” Cormier said. “Cool thing to do now. But if anybody deserves a rematch, it’s Demetrious Johnson. Come on, he lost a split decision after 11 title defenses. If Demetrious Johnson doesn’t get a rematch, there is no hope for any of us in the entire world, because that means that nothing you could ever do will warrant getting an immediate title shot [rematch].”
Rogan then questioned what the difference was between Johnson not getting an immediate rematch and Cormier passing over Stipe Miocic in favor of former UFC heavyweight champion and current WWE star Brock Lesnar.
Miocic is the only heavyweight in the history of UFC’s division to defend the belt more than two times.
While Cormier doesn’t believe that the numbers match between Demetrious Johnson and Stipe Miocic, he did clarify that he’s more than willing to fight Miocic again should Lesnar be unable to make their yet-to-be-scheduled meeting.
Lesnar has not fought since July 2016, and has a pair of drug test failures on his record, leading some to question whether existing or future issues with the USADA will render him ineligible to compete when the time comes for contracts to be signed.
“[Miocic] should [get a rematch], but he went three [defenses]. Three is a lot different than 11,” Cormier said. “And also, if Brock Lesnar was staring at Stipe, that would happen, but I’ll tell you this right now, I’ll tell you this on record: If Brock Lesnar doesn’t make it to the fight for any reason, I’ll fight Stipe again. That is not a problem.
“There is no reason I wouldn’t fight Stipe. I’m only fighting Brock because I’m fighting Brock. But if he doesn’t make it, I’ll fight Stipe again. There you go.”