The Unforgettable Sting: Daniel Cormier Recalls Anthony Johnson's Devastating Power

The world of mixed martial arts is replete with tales of incredible power and iron-chinned resilience. Yet, even among the toughest champions, there are moments that stand out, leaving an indelible mark. UFC legend Daniel Cormier, a man who has faced a murderers' row of opponents across two divisions, recently shared such a memory, pointing to one specific adversary whose strikes felt fundamentally different: Anthony "Rumble" Johnson.

In a candid revelation that speaks volumes about Johnson's devastating power, Cormier admitted that during their second light heavyweight title clash at UFC 210, every single one of Johnson's shots left him "stunned." "It hurt so bad," Cormier recounted, emphasizing the profound impact.

This isn't just any fighter making such a statement; it's Daniel Cormier, a former Olympic wrestler known for his granite chin and unwavering resolve, who also faced generational talents like Jon Jones and heavyweight behemoths like Stipe Miocic.

The first encounter between Cormier and Johnson at UFC 187 saw "DC" weather an early storm to claim the vacant light heavyweight title via submission.

Their rematch, however, seemingly pushed Cormier to new limits in terms of absorbing punishment. Despite ultimately securing another second-round rear-naked choke victory, Cormier's confession paints a vivid picture of the sheer magnitude of Johnson's striking prowess. He wasn't just hitting hard; he was hitting with a force that truly transcended the ordinary, causing an almost disorienting pain with each connection.

Cormier's willingness to openly discuss the immense challenge Johnson presented is a testament to the respect he holds for his former foe.

It underscores the unique threat Johnson posed, a fighter capable of ending a bout with a single, perfectly landed blow. While Cormier's grappling and strategic brilliance ultimately allowed him to conquer "Rumble" twice, his honest reflection serves as a powerful reminder of Anthony Johnson's legendary knockout power and the brutal reality of competing at the highest levels of professional fighting.

It's a narrative that solidifies both men's legacies: Johnson as one of the hardest hitters the sport has ever seen, and Cormier as an unyielding champion who stared down devastating power and emerged victorious.