Daniel Cormier
Former Olympian remains unbeaten, advances to Heavyweight Grand Prix finals
As Daniel Cormier prepared to meet Antonio Silva Saturday night, the question was whether the unbeaten heavyweight prospect could deal with Silva’s size. As it turned out, Cormier’s speed and improved boxing proved to be the real difference maker.
Cormier used great movement and pinpoint boxing to stun Silva early, dropping the former EliteXC heavyweight champion right out of the gate. Though Silva regained his faculties, the speed difference between the two fighters was very evident, as Cormier continued to move around on the outside, picking Silva apart with his boxing.
With just over a minute left in the opening round, Cormier connected with another heavy right hand, flooring Silva. He quickly followed up with a final hammerfist as the referee came crashing in.
The victory pushes Cormier’s record to 9-0 and moves him into the finals of the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix tournament.