Despite reports of Brock Lesnar’s impending return this summer, the UFC could wind up booking a rematch between Stipe Miocic and current heavyweight king Daniel Cormier.
“That fight isn’t even in the works,” UFC President Dana White said of the Lesnar vs. Cormier matchup. “That fight might not even happen first.”
Boos greeted White’s statement today at a news conference for the promotion’s second-quarter event schedule.
“That’s what Cormier said, too,” White replied. “Nothing happened. We haven’t even talked to Brock. We don’t have a date for him right now. The first fight might be Stipe.”
The timing of the rematch depends on Cormier’s health. After a light workout in the gym, White said the current champ is still on the mend.
“As soon as he’s healthy to fight, we can make a decision on when we’re going to do him and Stipe,” White said.
The UFC executive didn’t dispute the promotion’s plans to book Lesnar (5-3 MMA, 4-3 UFC) opposite Cormier (22-1 MMA, 11-1 UFC). The fight has been pushed hard by Cormier, who named the ex-heavyweight UFC champ as one of a few fights he planned to take before retirement.
And with Lesnar recently losing his title in the WWE, the timing seemed perfect. But according to White, Brock hasn’t picked up the phone.
“When Brock Lesnar’s ready, he’ll call me,” he said.
Such news is undoubtedly music to the ears of Miocic (18-3 MMA, 12-3 UFC), who was knocked out by Cormier in the first round when they met in July 2018. Cormier has shot down Miocic’s demands for an immediate rematch as the winningest UFC heavyweight champ in history. But he may have no other choice but to move forward.
Of course, the UFC is famous for misdirecting fans and media about Lesnar’s plans. Prior to a comeback at UFC 200, White denied the ex-champ had been signed to a contract, only to announce it later at a press conference.
Cormier hasn’t fought since submitting Derrick Lewis this past November at UFC 230. He’s struggled with injuries during his decorated career and has pushed back his retirement date.
Miocic hasn’t fought since his loss to Cormier.
For more on the UFC’s upcoming schedule, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.
