UFC CEO Dana White, having witnessed countless iconic clashes throughout the promotion's history, was recently posed a defining question: what is the greatest rivalry ever in the UFC? His answer surprised many, as he bypassed the globally sensational feud between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor. Instead, White firmly placed the long-standing, deeply personal conflict between Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier at the pinnacle.
The Real Emotion Behind the Jones-Cormier Feud
During a recent media interaction in the United States, White was quick and clear with his choice. "It would absolutely be those two," he stated, referring to Jones and Cormier. He emphasised that their story was built on genuine animosity, not promotional hype. The rivalry exploded long before their first official fight, marked by fiery interviews, sharp exchanges at press events, and a now-legendary physical confrontation at a Las Vegas hotel lobby—a clip replayed endlessly by fight fans.
White recalled the intense atmosphere surrounding their encounters, noting his role was often to prevent physical altercations before the bout. "When you are there, you are not there for pictures," he explained. "You are there to make sure they do not touch. Once someone feels disrespected, things can move fast." This raw, unchecked emotion, according to White, is what set their rivalry apart.
Inside the Octagon and Beyond: A Lasting Conflict
Their storied competition inside the cage saw two epic meetings. The first at UFC 182 in January 2015 ended with Jon Jones defeating Daniel Cormier by unanimous decision after five gruelling rounds. The rematch at UFC 214 in July 2017 appeared to have a more definitive conclusion, with Jones knocking Cormier out. However, that result was later overturned to a no-contest following a failed anti-doping test.
Remarkably, the rivalry has endured well past their active fighting days. In a testament to its lingering tension, both Jones and Cormier appeared on a Russian reality television show in late 2025, where old wounds were reopened. Reports from the set indicated heated arguments, with Cormier even suggesting discussions about a potential third match in wrestling or boxing.
Reflecting on the experience, Jon Jones admitted that while there were fleeting moments of laughter, the underlying tension never dissipated. He expressed a belief that their fractured relationship may never be repaired, confirming that the feud remains deeply personal years later.
Why This Rivalry Tops Khabib vs McGregor
While the Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Conor McGregor saga in 2018 generated unprecedented global attention and a post-fight brawl at UFC 229, Dana White's endorsement has sparked debate among fans. Many online agreed with his perspective, arguing that the Jones-Cormier narrative had a deeper, more complex, and longer-lasting storyline.
The elements that define their feud include:
- A prolonged build-up of genuine dislike over years.
- Two high-stakes championship fights with dramatic outcomes.
- Continued public sparring long after their final UFC bout.
- A legacy that continues to be a benchmark for hostility in the sport.
With both legends now retired from full-time competition, their chapter in UFC history is closed, but the story of their rivalry is far from forgotten. For Dana White, who has seen it all, the combination of real anger, high-level competition, and unforgettable scenes both inside and outside the Octagon makes Jon Jones versus Daniel Cormier the unmatched standard for a UFC rivalry.
