Covington's Presidential Request for UFC 296
Controversial UFC welterweight contender Colby Covington has made a public request that could shake up the traditional championship ceremony. Covington, known for his brash personality and outspoken support of political figures, has expressed his desire for former President Donald Trump to be the one to wrap the welterweight title around his waist should he emerge victorious at UFC 296.
The event, which is set to take place in Las Vegas, will feature Covington going head-to-head with current champion Leon Edwards. Covington is vying for what would be his third reign as the undisputed welterweight champion—a feat that has eluded him thus far in his career.
While it is customary for UFC President Dana White to present the belt to the victor, Covington has requested a deviation from this norm, hoping to have Trump involved in the proceedings. However, the UFC has yet to make any official statements regarding this unconventional proposal.
This wouldn't be the first time a celebrity has presented a title at a UFC event. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson had the honor at a previous event, showcasing the organization's willingness to blend entertainment with sport on occasion.
A Friendship Beyond the Octagon
Covington's connection with Trump extends beyond mere admiration. The two share a strong friendship, highlighted by Trump's attendance at UFC 295 held at Madison Square Garden. Despite their bond, White has dismissed the idea of Trump walking out with Covington to the octagon, perhaps indicating the limits of celebrity involvement on fight night.
Nevertheless, Covington remains undeterred and confident in his upcoming bout against Edwards. He has been vocal about his belief that Trump's presence alone elevates his status above his opponent, stating, "I have the most important and famous person on planet earth coming to my fights to watch me front row. Who does Leon have?" Covington went on to diminish Edwards' standing in the fight promotion, referring to himself as the "A-side" and labeling Edwards as a "nobody."
Record and Anticipation
Covington enters the match with an impressive professional MMA record of 17 wins and 3 losses. His last outing in the octagon was against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 272, a fight that added another victory to his tally. On the other side, Edwards boasts a record of 21 victories, 3 losses, and one no-contest. Having captured the welterweight title at UFC 278 and successfully defended it at UFC 286, Edwards presents a formidable challenge to Covington's championship aspirations.
The upcoming fight marks Covington's third shot at becoming the undisputed champion, a goal that has remained just out of reach in previous attempts. As the fight approaches, Covington's confidence seems unshaken, bolstered by the strategic advice he claims to have received from Trump himself. "He's given me great coaching advice for this fight," Covington remarked about his interactions with the former president, suggesting a level of camaraderie and mutual respect between the two.
Covington's Praise for White Amidst Unusual Request
Despite his unusual request, Covington has not withheld praise for the UFC's head honcho. "I love Dana; he's the greatest promoter in the history of any sport; he's the greatest commissioner," Covington declared, acknowledging White's role in the success of the UFC and mixed martial arts. His request to have Trump present the belt, however, represents a polite but firm departure from the norm, as Covington seeks to intertwine his sporting achievements with his personal and political affiliations.
In a gesture of reciprocal respect, Covington has pledged to honor Trump should he win the title, saying, "I'm going to put it right back around Donald's waist because he's the champion of the people." This statement underlines Covington's intention to use his platform not only to further his athletic legacy but also to pay homage to a figure he holds in high regard.
As UFC 296 draws near, the anticipation builds not only for the clash between two top-tier welterweights but also for the potential political pageantry that may accompany it. Whether or not Trump will indeed strap the belt on Covington, should he win, remains to be seen. Regardless, the event is poised to be a memorable one, with high stakes and even higher personalities involved.