Despite having hung his gloves years ago, Daniel Cormier remains a towering figure in the country’s wrestling circuit. A two-time NJCAA Championships gold medalist, Cormier once again showcased his expertise in the sport just a few days ago at the U.S. Marine Corps Junior Nationals in Fargo. With the former UFC star standing in his corner, Daniel Zepeda of California won the national title in the 144lb weight class, but this might not be the end of the line for their collaborative efforts, as the rising star hinted.

Cormier was also instrumental behind Zepeda’s CIF state title in February this year. The fruitful alliance recorded its latest milestone emphatically last week, and the budding talent thinks his senior namesake has more to offer still.

Fargo Champion hails Daniel Cormier for his pivotal guidance

In his Instagram story from hours ago, Zepeda hinted there could be more on the table for him and Cormier to devour. Tagging the 2007 World Championships medalist, Daniel wrote, “We got one more run left together“. The attached collage of images shows Cormier cheering on his pupil and the duo sharing a triumphant embrace after Zepeda trounced Smokey McClure with a 13-4 result in the final round at the Fargo tournament.

The “run” Zepeda is talking about could be referring to his upcoming rematch against U20 World team member Bo Bassett. Seconds after his victory, Daniel was handed a golden ticket by Bo for their possible match-up at September’s Who’s Number One tournament. The last time they locked horns 10 months ago, Zepeda subdued the Bishop McCort star 18-7. Naturally, the rematch between the two of the country’s most prominent junior wrestlers is highly discussed and Zepeda believes having Cormier as his guide will earn him his second victory over Bo.

In his post-match interview after the victory in Fargo, Daniel was heard talking about how he’s looking forward to meeting Bassett. “I think that will be a good one,” said Zepeda with a smile on his face underscoring his confidence. Then, he went on to hail Cormier for helping him sharpen his skills. “Since I’ve been with Cormier, I’ve jumped levels,” confessed the high schooler. However, the 2024 Fargo Nationals champ isn’t the only wrestler in the making who has had the fortune of learning from one of the best figures of the sport.

Cormier’s commitment to show new stars the way

In January this year, Cormier was spotted at the Pennsylvania Regional Training Center imparting knowledge and crucial tips to young wrestlers alongside Olympic gold medalist and national wrestling icon Jordan Burroughs. From sparring with three younglings at the same time to showing them expert grappling techniques, Cormier’s dedication to helping nurture talents could not be ignored as he sported a beaming smile on his face all the time at the training center.

So far, Zepeda has had an incredible year, winning most of the challenges thrown at him in different tournaments. While he hasn’t made the national team for the U20 World Championships scheduled for September, he has recorded several other emphatic wins. Considering his track record so far, it remains to be seen if he can bring down Bassett from his high horse once again later this year, especially with what he has learned from the former Team USA wrestling sensation. What do you predict about the future of Zepeda’s wrestling career? Tell us below!