Colby Covington witnessed his former opponent Kamaru Usman attempting to reclaim his divisional championship from the recently crowned welterweight rking, Leon Edwards. However, it was ‘Rocky’ who emerged triumphant in front of the London fans, securing his inaugural title defense.
Shortly after being declared the victor, the Jamaican-English fighter was asked by former UFC double champion Daniel Cormier if he was interested in a title fight against Colby Covington. However, ‘Rocky’ promptly declined the suggestion, pointing out that Covington’s lack of activity in the sport made him undeserving of a championship opportunity.
Regrettably, the words of the champion went unheeded by UFC president Dana White. During the post-fight press conference, White declared that ‘Chaos’ would be the next contender for the championship. Despite Edwards’ impressive victory over ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’, it seems improbable that he would achieve a similar triumph against Covington.
Leon Edwards had scarcely left the octagon, still basking in the glory of his second triumph over Kamaru Usman at UFC 286, when he was informed of his next opponent. During the post-fight press conference, UFC president Dana White announced that Colby Covington had become the new top contender in the welterweight division.
Covington had journeyed to England to serve as the backup for the main event and last competed in March 2022, securing a unanimous decision victory over Jorge Masvidal. Although he has a record of 2-2 in his past four fights, with both losses coming against Usman in previous title bouts, somehow ‘Chaos’ has been deemed worthy of a title shot.
Colby Covington gets his chance at the strap
Upon receiving this news, Edwards was utterly perplexed as to why Covington had been granted a shot at his title. Particularly, given his prolonged absence and lack of activity over the previous year.
“I don’t know how that makes sense,” Edwards said. “He hasn’t fought for over a year and a half. Sat out, not injured. I just don’t get how he just slides in for the world title shot. When there’s other guys in the division that’s been active, been fighting, didn’t sit out.
“Like I said, I’m the king now. I’ve earned my way. I feel I should decide who’s next.”
Ideally, Edwards would relish the opportunity to resolve a longstanding feud with Jorge Masvidal. He is scheduled to face Gilbert Burns in the co-main event at UFC 287 in April. The conflict between Leon and Masvidal dates back to 2019. This was when both welterweights secured victories at a UFC event in London.
During Masvidal’s post-fight interview, Edwards shouted something at him, possibly indicating an interest in a future bout between the two. This led to the famous Three piece and a soda incident
