Daniel Cormier, the celebrated former two-division UFC champion and current commentator, has navigated a life marked by profound personal challenges and triumphs, both inside and outside the octagon. His romantic journey, while often kept private, reflects a path from early heartbreak to finding a stable and supportive partnership. Cormier's relationships have shaped his personal life, with significant milestones and profound losses publicly acknowledged over the years.
Cormier's romantic history began with a deeply tragic chapter involving his former girlfriend, Carolyn Flowers, a track athlete he dated during his time at Oklahoma State. Together, they welcomed a daughter, Kaedyn Imri Cormier, in March 2003. Heartbreakingly, Kaedyn's life was cut short just three months later when she died in a car accident on June 14, 2003. This devastating loss occurred during a period of immense personal upheaval for Cormier, profoundly impacting his early adult life and setting a somber tone for his early romantic experiences.
Following this profound loss, Daniel Cormier entered into a brief marriage with a woman named Robin. The couple tied the knot on November 16, 2002. However, this union was short-lived, concluding in either divorce or annulment in 2003. Public details regarding this marriage are scarce, with reports indicating it lasted less than a year. Despite the brevity, it marked Cormier's first official marriage, occurring concurrently with the tragic period of his daughter Kaedyn's passing.
A new chapter in Cormier's romantic life began around 2010 when he met Salina Deleon. At the time, Cormier was just embarking on his professional mixed martial arts career, and according to reports, the couple started their life together in modest circumstances. Salina, who had previously worked as a waitress, became a steadfast presence in Cormier's life, offering unwavering support as he transitioned from a decorated amateur wrestler to a rising star in MMA.
Their relationship quickly blossomed, leading to the birth of their first child, a son named Daniel Jr., on February 16, 2011. The following year, their family grew again with the arrival of their daughter, Marquita Kalani, born on March 4, 2012. These early years with Salina and their children provided Cormier with a strong foundation and a clear motivation for his burgeoning career. He often spoke about his family as his primary inspiration, famously stating, "This is why I fight!"
After several years together and two children, Daniel Cormier proposed to Salina Deleon on July 4, 2014, marking a significant step towards solidifying their commitment. Their engagement culminated in marriage on May 27, 2017, in a private ceremony held in California. Their wedding was a testament to their enduring bond, built on years of shared experiences and mutual support, including Cormier's ascent to UFC championship status.
The Cormier family continued to expand in late 2020 with the birth of their third child, a daughter named Luna Rose. Salina Deleon has largely maintained a private profile despite her husband's high-profile career, preferring to focus on their family life. She is frequently seen supporting Cormier at his fights and public appearances, embodying the quiet strength behind his success. Their relationship is often highlighted as a model of stability and partnership in the often tumultuous world of professional sports.
Daniel and Salina's relationship has been characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to their family. Cormier frequently credits Salina with providing the emotional stability and support necessary for him to achieve his goals in combat sports. Their life together, raising their three children, is a testament to their strong partnership, moving past early life challenges to build a lasting and loving home. The couple continues to share glimpses of their family life on social media, showcasing a grounded and affectionate dynamic that resonates with fans.