The Rise of Colby Covington: A Controversial UFC Fighter Making Waves
Introduction
The world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is full of exciting fighters, each with their unique style and personality. One such fighter who has been making waves in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is Colby Covington. His in-ring skills are equalled by a controversial personality that has both won him fans and made him enemies. In this blog post, we take a closer look at the rise of Colby Covington and what makes him such a polarising figure in the MMA world.
Section 1: Background
Colby Covington was born on February 22, 1988, in Clovis, California. He wrestled at Iowa Central Community College before transferring to Oregon State University, where he majored in sociology. Covington made his professional MMA debut in 2012 and signed with the UFC in 2014 after compiling an 8-0 record in smaller promotions. Covington currently fights in the welterweight division and has a professional MMA record of 16-2.
Section 2: Fighting Style
Covington is known for his relentless pace and high-volume striking. He uses his wrestling background to take opponents down and keep them there while landing heavy ground and pound. Covington’s striking is also impressive, with a high output of punches and kicks. He is known to push a high-tempo that can wear down even the best opponents.
Section 3: Trash-Talking
Covington is perhaps best known for his trash-talking, which has earned him both fans and detractors. He often uses controversial remarks to trigger his opponents and get under their skin before the fight. Some of his most memorable comments include calling Brazil a “dump,” and referring to UFC champ Kamaru Usman as a “fake Nigerian.”
Section 4: Political Views
Covington has been vocal about his support for Donald Trump and conservative politics. He has been seen wearing a Make America Great Again hat, and even visited Trump after winning the UFC interim welterweight title. His political views have been a source of controversy, with some fans and fighters criticizing him for mixing politics and sports.
Section 5: Controversies in the UFC
Covington has been involved in several controversies during his time in the UFC. Most famously, he caused a stir when he called Brazilian fans “filthy animals” after defeating Demian Maia in Sao Paulo. Covington was also stripped of his interim title after refusing to fight Tyron Woodley, citing injury concerns.
Section 6: Challenges in and out of the Octagon
Covington’s brash personality has earned him both fans and detractors. He often challenges his fellow fighters to fights, both in and out of the Octagon. Covington has also been involved in legal troubles outside of the ring, including a dust-up with former UFC fighter Fabricio Werdum at an event in Australia.
Section 7: Future Plans
Covington’s future in the UFC remains uncertain at present, as he is currently recovering from a jaw injury sustained in his recent loss to Kamaru Usman. However, he has stated his intention to return to the Octagon and continue fighting. Covington has also expressed an interest in pursuing a professional wrestling career, citing his admiration for WWE stars like The Rock.
Section 8: Legacy and Impact
Regardless of how his career ultimately ends up, Covington has already left a significant impact on the MMA world. He has become one of the sport’s most polarizing figures, both for his fighting style and his controversial personality. Love him or hate him, Covington has certainly made his mark on the sport.
Conclusion
Colby Covington’s rise to prominence in the UFC has been a controversial one. He’s known for bringing an aggressive mindset and a brash personality to the ring, one that often overshadows his exceptional fighting skills. Whether you love him or hate him, Covington’s undoubtedly one of the most exciting fighters in the sport today.
FAQs
Q1: What is Colby Covington’s record in the UFC?
Colby Covington has a professional MMA record of 16-2, with a 10-2 record in the UFC.
Q2: What is Covington’s fighting style?
Covington is known for his relentless pace and high-volume striking. He also uses his wrestling background to take opponents down and keep them there while landing heavy ground and pound.
Q3: What are some of Covington’s most controversial comments?
Covington has famously called Brazilian fans “filthy animals” and referred to UFC champ Kamaru Usman as a “fake Nigerian.”
Q4: Has Covington been involved in legal troubles outside of the Octagon?
Yes, Covington has been involved in several legal incidents outside of the Octagon, including a dust-up with former UFC fighter Fabricio Werdum at an event in Australia.
Q5: What are Covington’s future plans?
Covington’s future in the UFC remains uncertain at present, as he is currently recovering from a jaw injury. However, he has expressed his intent to return to the Octagon and continue fighting and has talked about his interest in pursuing professional wrestling.