Covington's Special Request for Trump
Colby Covington, the controversial UFC welterweight contender, has made a unique request ahead of his upcoming title fight. Covington has expressed his desire for former President Donald Trump to be the one to wrap the championship belt around his waist should he emerge victorious at UFC 296 in Las Vegas. This is an unconventional ask, as it is customary for UFC President Dana White to present the belt to the winner inside the Octagon.
Covington is no stranger to the spotlight or to making bold statements. He is slated to face Leon Edwards with the goal of securing the undisputed welterweight championship for the third time in his career. The fighter’s relationship with Trump is well-documented, and they are known to share a strong bond. Trump's presence at UFC events isn't unprecedented; he attended UFC 295 at Madison Square Garden, which added a layer of celebrity status to the event.
While Covington's request is pending, the UFC has yet to make any public comments regarding the possibility of Trump's involvement in the championship presentation. It's worth noting that there is a precedent for celebrities presenting the title; Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson famously did so at a previous UFC event. However, Dana White has dismissed the idea of Trump walking Covington to the octagon, potentially leaving the door open for other forms of participation.
Covington's Confidence and Record
As the fight night approaches, Covington has not been shy about his confidence in defeating Edwards. He has been vocal about his capabilities and has touted his professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) record of 17 wins and 3 losses. His last appearance in the octagon was against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 272, adding another victory to his impressive record.
On the other side of the octagon stands Leon Edwards, who holds a commendable record himself with 21 wins, three losses, and one no-contest. Edwards claimed the welterweight title at UFC 278 and successfully defended it at UFC 286, proving his mettle as a champion.
This matchup marks Covington's third attempt to clinch the undisputed welterweight title, a feat that would solidify his standing in the division. His preparation for this bout includes strategic discussions with Trump, whom he considers not just a friend but also a mentor of sorts. Covington has revealed that their conversations extend beyond friendship, with Trump providing advice on game plans for the upcoming fight.
Covington's Praise for Dana White and Trump
Despite his request for Trump to take on the role typically reserved for White, Covington has shown great respect for the UFC president, calling him "the greatest promoter in the history of any sport." His admiration for Trump is equally effusive, referring to him as "my favorite person and human alive" and "the champion of the people."
In the lead-up to the fight, Covington has leveraged his connection with Trump to underscore his own prominence in the sport, contrasting it with his opponent's profile. He has referred to Edwards dismissively as "a nobody" and "the B-side," while casting himself as "the A-side" of the fight, highlighting the star power he believes he brings to the event.
Covington's rhetoric is indicative of his larger-than-life persona and the psychological warfare often waged between fighters before they step into the octagon. His remarks about wrapping the belt around Trump's waist serve as both a nod to their friendship and a symbolic gesture that aligns with his personal brand.
As the fight approaches, all eyes will be on the UFC to see whether they accommodate Covington's request, adding another layer of intrigue to what promises to be a compelling contest for the welterweight championship. Regardless of the outcome, Covington's brashness and his knack for stirring interest ensure that UFC 296 will be a spectacle with high stakes and even higher expectations.