Daniel Cormier has issued a cautionary warning regarding Gable Steveson’s transition from wrestling to mixed martial arts, suggesting that the rising star’s progress could be hindered under the tutelage of Jon Jones. While Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, Cormier believes his coaching style and approach may not be the ideal fit to accelerate Steveson’s development in the cage. This candid assessment sheds light on the challenges faced by elite wrestlers entering MMA and raises questions about the best path forward for the promising prospect.
Daniel Cormier Raises Concerns Over Gable Steveson’s MMA Development Under Jon Jones
Daniel Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion and esteemed MMA analyst, has openly expressed his reservations about Gable Steveson’s transition to mixed martial arts under the tutelage of Jon Jones. While Jones is celebrated for his own unparalleled fighting IQ and accomplishments in the octagon, Cormier believes that coaching a developing athlete like Steveson requires a specialized approach-one that balances technical growth with strategic development. Cormier warned that Jon Jones’ intense focus and striking-centric coaching style could potentially “slow down” the Olympic wrestling star’s progression by limiting exposure to a broader, more diverse MMA skill set.
Cormier highlighted key areas where Steveson’s MMA development might face challenges, suggesting the necessity for a well-rounded camp that complements his wrestling background:
- Comprehensive striking training: Beyond basic stand-up skills to include defense and counterattacks
- Submission grappling and jiu-jitsu: To diversify ground fighting beyond wrestling control
- Fight IQ and adaptability: Continued sparring with varied styles to build real-fight instincts
- Conditioning and pacing: Tailored for MMA’s unique cardio demands over wrestling stamina
| Skill Area | Expected Benefit | Cormier’s Concern |
|---|---|---|
| Striking | Effective stand-up offense and defense | Narrow focus on Jones’ style might limit versatility |
| Submission Grappling | Control and finishing on the ground | Insufficient emphasis could leave gaps in defense |
| Fight IQ | Adapting mid-fight strategies | Risk of slow tactical evolution if training isn’t diverse |
| Conditioning | Endurance for five-round bouts | Different demands than wrestling stamina require dedicated work |
Expert Analysis Highlights Potential Risks and Strategic Alternatives for Steveson’s Transition to MMA
Daniel Cormier, a respected figure in the MMA world, recently voiced significant concerns about Gable Steveson’s choice of Jon Jones as his coach. According to Cormier, while Jones possesses unparalleled experience as a fighter, his coaching style may not align perfectly with Steveson’s rapid development trajectory in the professional MMA scene. Cormier suggests that Jones’ tendency to overanalyze and his cautious approach could potentially limit Steveson’s natural aggression and athletic instincts, which have been crucial during his wrestling career.
In light of this, experts propose several strategic alternatives to optimize Steveson’s transition:
- Diversified Coaching Staff: Integrating trainers with specialized skills in striking, grappling, and conditioning to complement Jones’ insights.
- Focus on Fundamentals: Prioritizing MMA-specific techniques to bridge the gap between wrestling dominance and MMA versatility.
- Gradual Fight Exposure: Carefully selecting early opponents to build confidence and adapt to different fighting styles.
| Risk Factor | Potential Impact | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Overcoaching | Reduced spontaneity & aggression | Limit style rigidity |
| Limited Striking Experience | Vulnerability to stand-up specialists | Specialized striking coaching |
| Pressure of Expectations | Confidence issues in early fights | Careful matchmaking |
In Retrospect
As Gable Steveson continues to navigate his transition from wrestling to mixed martial arts, the choice of mentorship remains a critical factor in his development. Daniel Cormier’s candid warning about Jon Jones’ potential impact on Steveson’s progress adds a nuanced perspective to the discourse surrounding the young athlete’s future. Whether Jones’ coaching style will hinder or help remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Steveson’s path in MMA will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike as he seeks to carve out his place in the sport.
