MMA Legend, Controversial Commentator?–Daniel Cormier Under Fire for Alleged Bias at UFC 313

Daniel Cormier

Following the highly anticipated bout between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313, the MMA community didn’t just debate tactics and technique—it erupted over something else entirely: accusations of biased commentary, particularly from former UFC champion and current broadcaster Daniel Cormier.

Many fans and analysts claimed that Cormier appeared heavily biased in favor of Pereira, while Ankalaev, a skilled Russian wrestler, was unfairly underrepresented throughout the live broadcast. The controversy raises important questions about the objectivity and professionalism of UFC commentators.

Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313

🎙️ Daniel Cormier: MMA Legend, Controversial Commentator?

There’s no denying that Daniel Cormier is one of the most respected figures in MMA history—a former UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight champion with wins over legends like Derrick Lewis and battles with Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. But transitioning from the Octagon to the commentary booth requires a different skill set—chiefly, total objectivity.

At UFC 313, during a tightly contested matchup between Pereira and Ankalaev, many fans felt Cormier consistently praised Pereira’s striking while either downplaying or completely ignoring Ankalaev’s effective grappling and defensive maneuvers.

📣 Backlash from the MMA Community

Social media was ablaze following the event, with fans and pundits alike criticizing Cormier’s apparent bias. Some notable reactions included:

@FightFan89: “I respect DC as a fighter, but it felt like he was cheering for Pereira. That’s not commentary—it’s cheerleading.”

@MMAAnalystZone: “Ankalaev was clearly controlling parts of the fight, but if you listened to Cormier, you’d think Pereira was dominating start to finish.”

The backlash was strong enough that Daniel Cormier responded publicly, stating that he had no bias and that his commentary was based on his real-time perception of the fight.

“I don’t have a problem with any fighter. I call it like I see it. If that offends people, I’m sorry—but I won’t apologize for having an opinion.” – Daniel Cormier via X (Twitter)

🎯 Bias or Personal Perspective?

This isn’t the first time UFC commentators have been accused of favoritism. Joe Rogan, Michael Bisping, and others have also faced scrutiny in the past, particularly in politically charged matchups or when covering fighters from their home countries.

However, this incident is especially sensitive given the high stakes of the Pereira vs. Ankalaev fight, which carried serious implications for the light heavyweight division. In a closely contested match, biased commentary can influence not only fans’ perceptions but potentially the judges’ as well.

Michael Bisping Replaces Joe Rogan In Commentary Booth For UFC 275

🧭 The Role of a UFC Commentator: Absolute Objectivity Required

Commentator Tier List : r/ufc

A sports commentator isn’t just narrating action—they help shape the viewer’s experience. In a sport as precise and high-stakes as MMA, every move matters, and so does every word.

For former fighters like Cormier—who may have friendships or rivalries with current athletes—maintaining neutrality can be challenging but is essential. Failing to do so can damage credibility and shake fans’ trust in the fairness of the UFC.

📝  UFC Must Protect Viewer Trust

The Daniel Cormier controversy at UFC 313 is a timely reminder of the responsibility that comes with the microphone. No matter their legacy in the Octagon, commentators must strive to analyze without bias.

It may be time for the UFC to implement training or oversight protocols to ensure that commentators deliver fair, balanced coverage to a global audience.

Because in a sport as unforgiving and merit-based as MMA, every word carries as much weight as a punch.