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David Taylor, the Olympic gold medalist in wrestling, finds himself at a crossroads as he eyes a potential transition to MMA, a move that has drawn both intrigue and cautionary words from former UFC champion Daniel Cormier. In an exclusive interview with MMA Fighting, Taylor hinted at the possibility of stepping into the cage while remaining focused on his immediate goal of securing a spot on the 2024 U.S. Olympic wrestling team.
Taylor, known for his dominant performances in wrestling, expressed his interest in MMA, stating,
"That door’s not closed. I’m interested in it. Right now, my focus is being an Olympic champion. If that happens, it’s time to re-evaluate and see what’s next."
He acknowledged the challenges of transitioning to MMA but emphasized his belief in his abilities to succeed in a new arena.
The Olympic champ's potential move to MMA comes after training stints at Factory X under coach Marc Montoya, where he explored the crossover between his wrestling skills and MMA techniques. Taylor's accolades in wrestling, including a three-time World Wrestling Championships winner and his impending quest for a second Olympic gold, make him a compelling prospect in the MMA world.
However, Daniel Cormier, a two-time Olympian and UFC Hall of Famer, offered words of caution, urging Taylor to stay focused on wrestling and mentor the next generation of athletes. Cormier emphasized the mental and physical demands of fighting, noting,
"You have to be a little crazy to fight."
While Taylor remains intrigued by the prospect of MMA, Cormier's advice underscores the challenges and risks associated with transitioning from a decorated wrestling career to the unpredictable world of mixed martial arts. As Taylor navigates this decision, his dedication to wrestling and his aspirations in MMA continue to spark discussions among fans and experts alike.