Daniel Cormier, a former UFC champion, has expressed his disapproval of the recent decision to legalize 12-6 elbows in MMA. Starting in November, the Unified Rules of MMA will be updated to allow the use of these downward elbows, a move unanimously approved by the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports Rules Committee.
This rule change reverses a long-standing ban that has been in place since the creation of the unified rules in 2000.
Cormier is concerned that legalizing 12-6 elbows could lead MMA back to its more violent origins, which were often criticized before stricter rules were implemented. He shared his thoughts on the “Funky and the Champ” show, expressing his dislike for 12-6 elbows and other potentially dangerous techniques like soccer kicks.
Cormier recalled a personal experience in the octagon where he utilized a slightly arched elbow to cut his opponent, which, though not technically a 12-6 elbow, was close to it.
His main argument against these changes is that they could make MMA resemble street fighting, which he believes would harm the sport’s image. Cormier referenced the late Senator John McCain, who once described MMA as “human cockfighting” and was a vocal critic of the sport’s early brutality.
Cormier fears that if rules continue to be loosened, MMA might revert to a style of fighting that resembles gang violence, something he strongly opposes.
One of the most notable incidents involving the 12-6 elbow rule occurred in 2009, when Jon Jones, now a UFC heavyweight champion, was disqualified for using the technique against Matt Hamill.
This disqualification remains the only loss on Jones’ professional record, despite his appeal to the Nevada Athletic Commission to overturn the ruling, which was unsuccessful.
UFC CEO Dana White has shown support for the idea of overturning Jones’ loss, which has sparked further discussion on the implications of the rule change. While White’s position may align with the new rules, Cormier’s concerns highlight the ongoing debate about the balance between maintaining safety in the sport and allowing more aggressive techniques.
