UFC 170's Daniel Cormier doesn't see UFC on FOX 10 broadcast duties as distraction

In a little more than four weeks, Daniel Cormier (13-0 MMA, 2-0 UFC) will make his light heavyweight debut at UFC 170 against former champ and current top contender Rashad Evans (21-3-1 MMA, 14-3-1 UFC). So why is “DC” breaking camp to take part in this weekend’s UFC on FOX 10 broadcast?

The 34-year-old Cormier said the opportunity to be a part of a network-television broadcast meant the risk was definitely worth the reward.

“I’m doing it because it’s big FOX,” Cormier told MMAjunkie. “Not many people get the opportunity to actually do big FOX. Most of our shows are on FOX Sports 1, and when you get an opportunity like that to do something that I really, truly enjoy doing, you have to do it. Plus, I think it’s something that could lead to opportunities in the future, and also, it’s a chance for me to go out and promote Rashad and I’s fight.

“I think it’s good all around, but also it’s a great opportunity for me to do big FOX. I’ve never done that one before. I’ve always done FOX Sports 1 and FUEL TV. It’s a whole different demographic when you get on the big show.”

UFC on FOX 10 takes place Saturday at Chicago’s United Center. Featuring a lightweight showdown between former UFC champ Benson Henderson and former Strikeforce title holder Josh Thomson, the night’s main card airs on FOX following prelims that air on FOX Sports 1 and stream on UFC Fight Pass.

Cormier will serve as an analyst on Friday’s weigh-in show, as well as at Saturday’s fight card. While the broadcasting duties aren’t likely to prove physically taxing, fighters are generally selfish with their time in the final weeks ahead of an important bout.

Cormier said it’s important to note it’s not exactly like he’s just taking the weekend off from training. With his American Kickboxing Academy teammate Thomson in the event’s headliner, Cormier said he’s basically just relocating his camp to Chicago.

“The thing about this weekend is also that my coaching staff is all going to be in Chicago anyways, so I didn’t really miss anything,” Cormier said. “Essentially, I’m just going with my whole coaching staff. They’re all going for Josh Thomson, anyway, so it kind of works out. I’ll have everything I would have had in San Jose. Not only are we going to be there, but my management is also sending a training partner for me. It’s really good.”

Featuring a women’s bantamweight title fight between current champ Ronda Rousey and undefeated challenger Sara McMann, UFC 170 takes place Feb. 22 at Las Vegas’ Mandalay Bay Events Center. Cormier and Evans serve as the night’s co-main event. The night’s main card airs on pay-per-view following prelims that air on FOX Sports 1 and stream on UFC Fight Pass.

For the latest on UFC on FOX 10 and UFC 170, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.

(Pictured: Daniel Cormier)