Covington's Bold Request for Trump to Present UFC Title
In an unprecedented move, outspoken welterweight fighter Colby Covington has expressed his desire for former President Donald Trump to present him with the championship belt should he emerge victorious in his upcoming fight. Covington is poised to face Leon Edwards at the highly anticipated UFC 296 event in Las Vegas, where he will vie for the title of undisputed welterweight champion—a feat he aims to achieve for the third time.
Traditionally, UFC President Dana White is the one who straps the belt around the waist of the new champion inside the octagon. However, Covington, known for his flamboyant personality and close ties with Trump, has publicly requested that his friend and the 45th president of the United States take on this celebratory role instead.
The UFC has yet to issue a statement regarding Covington's unusual petition. While there is a precedent for celebrities presenting the title—such as when Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson did the honors at a previous event—the idea of a former head of state partaking in such a ceremony is uncharted territory for the organization.
A Friendship Beyond the Octagon
Covington's connection with Trump extends beyond mere acquaintance. The fighter has been seen frequently in the company of the former president, including attending events and visiting Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort. Their bond appears to be not only personal but also advisory, with Covington claiming that Trump has provided him with valuable coaching advice for his forthcoming bout.
Trump's presence at UFC events is not novel; he was spotted at UFC 295 in New York City's Madison Square Garden. However, Dana White has dismissed the notion of Trump accompanying Covington to the octagon, perhaps hinting at the logistical and security complexities such an arrangement would entail.
Confidence Against Edwards
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his request, Covington remains undeterred and exudes confidence about defeating Edwards. This matchup marks Covington's third attempt to claim the undisputed welterweight championship, and his professional mixed martial arts record of 17 wins, 3 losses, and no draws suggests he is a formidable contender.
His last appearance in the octagon was against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 272, a fight that contributed to his impressive track record. On the other side, Edwards, the current titleholder, boasts a record of 21 wins, three losses, and one no-contest. Having secured the welterweight title at UFC 278 and successfully defending it at UFC 286, Edwards is not an opponent to be taken lightly.
Covington, however, dismisses Edwards' stature in the fight, referring to him as a "nobody" and labeling himself the "A-side" of the contest. His brash rhetoric underscores the psychological warfare often employed by fighters in the lead-up to major events, aiming to unsettle their opponents before setting foot in the cage.
Covington's Tribute to Trump
The admiration Covington holds for Trump is palpable in his statements. He lavishes praise on Dana White, recognizing him as the greatest promoter in the history of sports, yet insists on having Trump play a pivotal role in his potential victory celebration. In a gesture of reciprocal respect, Covington plans to dedicate his win to Trump, whom he refers to as "the champion of the people."
Covington's rhetoric not only builds anticipation for the fight but also emphasizes the significance of the support he receives from high-profile figures like Trump. He contrasts this by questioning the caliber of support behind his opponent, further inflating the narrative of his own superiority in the process.
As UFC 296 approaches, all eyes will be on whether Covington can fulfill his ambition of reclaiming the welterweight title and whether his request for Trump's involvement will come to fruition. Regardless of the outcome, Covington's bold approach to the sport and his use of political figures to amplify his brand continue to make him one of the most polarizing and talked-about personalities in mixed martial arts.