Covington's Special Request for Trump to Present UFC Title
In an unusual twist ahead of the highly anticipated welterweight title fight at UFC 296, Colby Covington has expressed his desire for former President Donald Trump to present the championship belt should he emerge victorious. This request deviates from the Ultimate Fighting Championship's tradition, where Dana White, the organization's president, typically does the honors.
Covington is slated to face Leon Edwards in what promises to be a thrilling contest in Las Vegas. The fighter is not only aiming for victory but also looking to reclaim the undisputed welterweight champion title for an impressive third time. His ambition is clear, and his confidence unwavering, as he prepares to step into the octagon once again.
While the UFC has yet to make a public statement regarding Covington's unconventional request, the idea of having a former president involved in the title presentation is not entirely without precedent. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, a celebrity outside of the political sphere, has previously presented a title at a UFC event, suggesting that there is room for non-traditional figures in such roles.
A Friendship Beyond the Octagon
The bond between Covington and Trump extends beyond mere acquaintance; the two share a strong friendship. Trump's presence at UFC events, including UFC 295 at Madison Square Garden, indicates his interest in the sport and support for Covington. Despite this connection, White has dismissed the notion of Trump walking Covington out to the octagon, possibly to maintain the focus on the sport rather than political spectacle.
Covington's regard for Trump is evident in his statements. He holds the former president in high esteem, considering him not just a friend but a mentor of sorts. "I love Dana; he's the greatest promoter in the history of any sport; he's the greatest commissioner," Covington acknowledged, before adding, "But I'm politely and respectfully asking Dana to step aside and let my favorite person and human alive, 45, Mr. Donald Trump put that belt around my waist."
The fighter's admiration doesn't stop with accolades. Covington has gone so far as to involve Trump in his fight preparations, stating, "I was at his house in Mar-a-Lago a couple of weeks ago, I call him regularly to ask him about a game plan. He's given me great coaching advice for this fight." In his view, Trump's attendance elevates his status above his opponent's, rhetorically asking, "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 vs. Edwards: A Battle for Welterweight Supremacy
Covington's confidence is not unfounded. With a professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) record of 17 wins, 3 losses, and no draws, he has proven himself a formidable competitor inside the cage. His last bout against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 272 showcased his skills and tenacity. However, Edwards is no pushover. As the current welterweight champion with a record of 21 wins, three losses, and one no-contest, he won the title at UFC 278 and successfully defended it at UFC 286, proving his mettle as a champion.
Covington has made it clear he sees himself as the main attraction, referring to himself as the "A-side" and dismissing Edwards as a "nobody" and the "B-side." This fight marks Covington's third attempt to secure the undisputed championship, and he is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for triumph.
As the fight night approaches, the MMA community awaits not only the outcome of this clash but also the resolution of Covington's request. Whether or not Trump will be allowed to wrap the belt around Covington's waist remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the spotlight shines brightly on UFC 296, promising an event filled with as much intrigue outside the octagon as within it.