Daniel Cormier is a retired American mixed martial artist, former Olympic wrestler, and UFC analyst with an estimated net worth of $6 million.
Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished combat athletes of his generation, Cormier carved out a legendary career across wrestling and mixed martial arts.
In the UFC, Cormier made history as the second fighter ever to hold championships in two weight classes simultaneously and the first to defend titles in two different divisions successfully.
Beyond the octagon, he represented the United States on the world stage as an elite freestyle wrestler, earning medals at major international competitions and competing in multiple World and Olympic teams.
Since retiring from professional MMA, Cormier has transitioned into a successful role as a UFC commentator, analyst, and wrestling coach, further expanding his influence in combat sports.
Daniel Cormier’s UFC Earnings And Salary
Throughout his UFC career, Daniel Cormier earned millions from fight purses, pay-per-view shares, sponsorships, and performance bonuses.
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UFC 226 (July 2018): Cormier defeated Stipe Miocic to win the heavyweight title and earned a guaranteed $500,000, excluding PPV bonuses.
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UFC 241 (August 2019): In his rematch against Miocic, Cormier earned $750,000, while Miocic reportedly earned $500,000. Both fighters also received substantial pay-per-view revenue.
Over the course of his career, Cormier’s total UFC earnings significantly contributed to his current net worth.
Early Life And Background
Daniel Ryan Cormier was born on March 20, 1979, in Lafayette, Louisiana, and was raised alongside four siblings.
His childhood was marked by tragedy when his father was shot and killed on Thanksgiving Day while Daniel was just seven years old.
Despite these hardships, Cormier found structure and purpose in wrestling. During high school, he emerged as a dominant force, winning three Louisiana State Championships and compiling an impressive 101–9 record after ninth grade.
College Wrestling Career
After high school, Cormier attended Colby Community College in Kansas, where he became a two-time junior college national champion. His success earned him a transfer to Oklahoma State University, where he competed at the Division I level.
Although he consistently performed at a high level, Cormier frequently faced wrestling legend Cael Sanderson, falling short of All-American status. He later graduated with a degree in sociology.
International Wrestling Career
Following college, Daniel Cormier transitioned to freestyle wrestling, representing the United States internationally. His accomplishments include:
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Fourth place at the 2004 Olympic Games
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World Championship bronze medal
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Pan American Games gold and bronze medals
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Two-time Pan American Champion
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Runner-up at the World Cup of Wrestling
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Six appearances on U.S. World or Olympic teams
His international success cemented his reputation as one of America’s elite wrestlers before entering MMA.
Transition To Mixed Martial Arts
By 2008, Cormier shifted his focus to mixed martial arts, training extensively in kickboxing to complement his elite wrestling base. He began his MMA career overseas, winning early bouts and quickly gaining attention.
By 2010, Cormier emerged as a dominant heavyweight prospect in Strikeforce, defeating notable opponents such as Jeff Monson, Antonio Silva, Josh Barnett, and Devin Cole. He also captured heavyweight titles in both Strikeforce and King of the Cage.
UFC Career And Championships
Daniel Cormier made his UFC debut in 2013, defeating Frank Mir. He followed up with victories over Roy Nelson, Patrick Cummins, and Dan Henderson, quickly establishing himself as a top contender.
In 2014, Cormier lost a title fight to Jon Jones, but after Jones was stripped of the championship, Cormier fought Anthony Johnson for the vacant light heavyweight title.
Despite being knocked down early, Cormier rallied and secured a submission victory to become UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.
He later:
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Defended the title against Alexander Gustafsson and Volkan Oezdemir
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Reclaimed the title after Jones failed a drug test
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Won the UFC Heavyweight Championship by defeating Stipe Miocic
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Successfully defended the heavyweight title against Derrick Lewis
Cormier ultimately lost back-to-back rematches to Miocic in 2019 and 2020, after which he officially announced his retirement.
Life After Retirement
Since retiring from MMA, Daniel Cormier has focused on coaching, broadcasting, and mentoring young athletes. He serves as:
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A UFC commentator and analyst
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Head wrestling coach at Gilroy High School in California, a position he has held since 2018
His post-fighting career reflects his continued passion for wrestling and athlete development.
Health Challenges
During his wrestling career, Cormier experienced kidney failure, caused by extreme weight cutting.
These health concerns followed him into his MMA career and frequently raised questions about his ability to safely make weight, particularly at light heavyweight.
Personal Life And Relationships
Daniel Cormier has endured significant personal loss. One of his children tragically died in a car accident in 2003.
In 2011, he welcomed a son with his longtime partner, Salina Deleon, followed by a second child in 2012. His son has since pursued wrestling, with Cormier actively assisting as a coach. The couple married in 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Daniel Cormier a double champion?
Yes, he held both the UFC Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight titles simultaneously.
Did Daniel Cormier compete in the Olympics?
Yes, he competed in the 2004 Olympic Games, finishing fourth in freestyle wrestling.
What does Daniel Cormier do now?
He works as a UFC analyst and commentator and serves as a high school wrestling coach in California.