Daniel Cormier, a UFC Hall of Famer and commentator, recognized a handful of individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping MMA over the past year. As someone deeply immersed in the sport, Cormier witnessed many of the 42 fight cards firsthand as a commentator and continued to engage with the MMA community as an analyst and podcast host. As 2024 draws to a close, he shared his top five influential figures in the MMA scene.
Hunter Campbell, the UFC’s Chief Financial Officer, took the fifth spot on Cormier’s list. Campbell is well-regarded for his ability to facilitate negotiations and forge relationships with athletes and their managers, enabling matchups that might otherwise seem impossible. Cormier recalls the ease of negotiating his final fight, a simplicity he attributes to the rapport built with Campbell during the latter years of his fighting career.
In fourth place is Conor McGregor, the former UFC champion, who continued to capture headlines despite his absence from the octagon. From calling off a press conference to dealing with legal issues, McGregor’s larger-than-life persona kept the world on edge, showcasing his unparalleled impact on the sport.
Jon Jones, the UFC heavyweight champion, is ranked third. Jones’ longevity at the top is unmatched, maintaining his dominance across multiple fighter generations. His recent victory against the renowned heavyweight Stipe Miocic only reinforced his status, and his influence over the sport has been consistently significant for over a decade.
Alex Pereira, the UFC light heavyweight champion, follows in second place. Pereira’s adaptability and style have made him a force, with critics hailing his potential to achieve greatness across multiple weight divisions. His resilience and ability to dictate fight terms have left an indelible mark on the 2024 MMA landscape.
Topping the list is UFC CEO Dana White, who remains the driving force behind the continued growth and success of the organization. White’s visionary leadership propels the UFC to new heights, influencing not only the sports world but crossing over into broader cultural realms, including global expansion and innovative ventures.
Cormier invites fans to listen to his full insights on “The Bohnfire” podcast, hosted by MMA Junkie’s senior reporter, Mike Bohn, for more in-depth discussions on the sport.
For additional interactions, fans are encouraged to engage with the MMA Junkie community through their Instagram page and YouTube channel, where they can share their thoughts and connect with other MMA enthusiasts.
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