Not anybody can be a leader. But Daniel Cormier is not “anybody.” Besides his talent inside the cage, “DC” is a role model outside of it. A recent video of him congratulating Cynthia Calvillo shows why he is rightfully the team captain of the American Kickboxing Academy.

Cynthia Calvillo has a professional mixed martial arts record of 9-1-1. The Mexican-American fighter has competed at strawweight for the majority of her pro career. However, in her last outing, she moved back up to flyweight to face off against Jessica Eye.

Daniel Cormier praises Cynthia Calvillo and her coaches

Calvillo outclassed Eye in her last fight and secured a unanimous decision victory. Soon after the fight, she received a call from her team captain – Daniel Cormier. Cormier, also the 2008 Olympic team captain, praised Calvillo and her coaches for an amazing performance.

“You fought like a true champion… And all the coaches, you guys did great. Her corner was panicking, and you guys were so calm and collected. It was great to see.”

Cynthia displayed gratitude towards “DC” as she thanked him for the praises.

“No problem. I’m real proud of you guys. Real proud of all you guys, all right? Great job, guys! Congratulations,” Daniel Cormier replied.

The victory over Eye boosted Calvillo’s career remarkably. She is now the #2 ranked contender in the flyweight division. Besides that, she can put forth a decent argument for a title shot since many critics consider the weight class to be shallow.

As far as Cormier is concerned, he is expected to fight the heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic in the upcoming months. This will be the third and possibly the final time that these two will collide. Considering Cormier’s age, it will probably be his final MMA match.

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