Two-time United States Olympian Daniel Cormier will make his MMA debut on the Sept. 25 Strikeforce: Challengers card. Strikeforce confirmed the news today.
Although an opponent has yet to be determined, Cormier is excited about his new career path.
“I think it’s an honor to be fighting for one of the top organizations in the world,” said Cormier.
Cormier recently relocated to San Jose, California, and began training at American Kickboxing Academy. His move into mixed martial arts will instantly make him one of the best wrestlers in the sport today, as evidenced by his distinguished junior college, NCAA and Olympic career.
“Wrestling’s a sport that teaches you how to be strong physically and mentally,” explained Cormier. “It really molds you and makes you take responsibility for your actions. If you don’t train hard, it’s going to be you out there getting embarrassed.”
Cormier is expected to make a run at the next Olympic wrestling team, but feels like MMA is the best career path in the meantime.
“I haven’t done anything since the Olympics and that competitive fire in me started to build and build last year,” said Cormier. “When I started feeling that, I started pursuing all avenues.”
Cormier’s first opponent is expected to be named shortly.
