Daniel Cormier Explains Throwing Punch During Wrestling Match in Dagestan

Daniel Cormier wasn’t always on good terms with athletes from Dagestan.

Cormier recently opened up on his controversial wrestling match in Dagestan against Shamil Gitinov at the 2005 Super Cup. A viral clip shows Cormier blatantly hitting Gitinov, who cries out in protest. Cormier claims his illegal blow was not unwarranted. According to the former UFC double champ, Gitinov had poked him in the eye right before he returned the favor.

‘He Knew What He Did’

“This is me and Gitinov… That was crazy,” Cormier told Red Corner MMA. “The match is over and I’m still pointing at him, because I’m not done fighting with him. I didn’t want to shake hands. Oh my God. I was such a bad sport… I’m wrestling…