Jones Respects Cormier After DC Admits Feud Is Good Business

Jon Jones says he respects Daniel Cormier for being honest about why their feud will never truly end.

Jones revealed that during filming of ALF Global, where the two served as opposing coaches, Cormier admitted the rivalry has been too financially rewarding to drop. According to Jones, as reported by BJPenn.com, DC told him their public animosity is good for business regardless of how they actually feel behind the scenes.

What Cormier Told Jones Behind The Scenes

"I would shake his hand if I had the opportunity to," Jones said. He described a moment during the show when he tried to ease tensions, asking Cormier if it was nice to just sit together without conflict. Cormier agreed but followed up with a reality check. "He said, 'Jon, being your enemy has made me too much money over the years. So, even though I have no problem with you, when the cameras turn on, I can never be your friend in front of you,'" Jones recalled. "I respect him for telling me that he actually doesn't hate me. To him, there's a part of it that's business."

Jones and Cormier fought twice at heavyweight/" class="internal-link text-bone underline decoration-ash/30 hover:decoration-gold underline-offset-2">light heavyweight, first in 2015 when Jones won by decision, then in 2017 when Jones stopped him with a head kick before a failed test changed the result to a no contest. Their rivalry included a press conference brawl and years of verbal warfare that fueled some of the UFC's biggest moments.

Jones said he believes Cormier's competitive nature and bitterness over never beating him also factors into their relationship. Both men have retired from competition, though Jones has teased a return under the right circumstances. Cormier now works as a UFC commentator while Jones has been coaching Olympic wrestling champion Gable Steveson.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Jon Jones respects Daniel Cormier for honest reason he won’t make amends: “He actually doesn’t hate me”