Brock Lesnar is undeniably one of the biggest names in combat sports history. A WWE legend and former UFC heavyweight champion, Lesnar was a dominant and intimidating force during his prime. Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s coach, Javier Mendez, once had the chance to face Lesnar, and the experience was just as intense as one might expect.
Javier Mendez recently spoke with Kevin Iole on his YouTube channel, reflecting on his fighter Cain Velasquez‘s legacy. Mendez expressed deep admiration for Velasquez’s achievements, emphasizing the significance of his victory against Lesnar. However, Mendez also discussed the concerns he felt as a coach during that heavyweight title fight, aware of the immense pressure.
When Brock entered the cage and I looked at him and in my mind I’m going, ‘How the hell are we gonna get away from this guy’…. Brock is polarizing. Man, he is a mammoth guy. Very intimidating also.Â
Javier Mendez via Kevin Iole’s YouTube channelÂ
Brock Lesnar, in his prime UFC years, was a dominant force, weighing around 265 lbs with exceptional athleticism and speed. Despite the daunting challenge, Mendez explained how Velasquez trusted his game plan, focusing on taking Lesnar down, knowing it was the key to victory. Velasquez dominated Lesnar at UFC 121, securing a first-round TKO victory to capture the heavyweight title.
Velasquez showcased superior striking, relentless pressure, and wrestling defense, overwhelming Lesnar and finishing him with ground-and-pound. After that Lesnar wasn’t the same and soon retired from MMA to re-join WWE where he had a stellar career. However, it is safe to say that at Mendez’s gym, nobody was scared of Lesnar after UFC 121.
When Khabib Nurmagomedov chose Daniel Cormier over Brock LesnarÂ
The rivalry between Daniel Cormier and Brock Lesnar heated up after Cormier won the UFC Heavyweight title at UFC 226. Lesnar, who had been lurking in the background, interrupted Cormier’s post-fight interview, leading to a tense confrontation. Their animosity fueled speculation of a potential showdown, but it never materialized inside the octagon.
Khabib Nurmagomedov chooses Daniel Cormier against Brock Lesnar (via X)At that time, Daniel Cormier was at the AKA and was coached by Javier Mendez, and was training with Khabib Nurmagomedov. Later that year, during a Q&A session, the ‘Eagle’ was asked to pick the winner between Lesnar and DC. As expected, the former lightweight champion chose Cormier and gave a befitting reply to the question.Â
If you talk about Brock Lesnar about striking or wrestling – how can he beat DC? I don’t understand this. DC is very tough guy. I think 99 percent DC can beat him. Only one percent (Lesnar can win). This is my opinion.
Khabib Nurmagomedov via UFC Fight Night Calgary
The relationship and loyalty between Cormier and Nurmagomedov have remained the same throughout the years. The videos of their personal banter often went viral on the internet. However, it is safe to say that fans were hyped about the potential of DC fighting Lesnar inside the octagon. It was sad that the fight didn’t happen.
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