Covington Would End Chimaev’s ‘Hype Machine’

Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC

Colby Covington is ready to beat any welterweight UFC puts in his way, and that includes rising sensation Khamzat Chimaev.

As one of the most controversial and outspoken fighters on the UFC roster today, Covington enjoys walking around with a target on his back. He calls out just about everyone, regardless of weight class, and always seems to go after the big money fights. So it shouldn’t surprise you that Covington is now talking about Chimaev.

The undefeated “Borz” has risen to MMA fame in just the matter of three months, amassing three wins inside of the Octagon and scoring a recent 17-second KO (see it HERE). If Chimaev continues to dominate the competition then he’ll eventually work his way high up the 170-pound ladder, leaving him right on Covington’s doorstep.

“I don’t even know who that it is. I remember someone saying there was some kid on my prelims that was fighting and had a bunch of hype on him. He hadn’t fought that was ranked top-50 in the world. They didn’t even bring me in the building until the co-main event so I didn’t see the prelims and this kid you talk of,” Covington told Submission Radio.

“But, if he gets some ranked wins and he becomes somebody, come see me. I’m the greatest fighter in the world, I’m not looking to avoid anybody. I’m looking to beat everybody and anyway in the way.

“So, you want to bring the hype machine behind these kids and think they are great and can do this and that. That hype train would be halted in a second if they see Colby Covington.”

As of now, after taking out Tyron Woodley this past September, Covington is focused on getting another shot at Kamaru Usman’s UFC welterweight title. If “Chaos” doesn’t land his rematch with the champion then he has the grudge match with former friend and training partner Jorge Masvidal to fall back on.

That said, Chimaev’s ascension has been nothing like we’ve ever seen. Not only does the 26-year-old posses some serious talent on the ground and the feet, but he has the full support of UFC president Dana White. It wouldn’t be surprising if Chimaev keeps his hot streak going and ends up fighting Covington sometime in 2021.

Of course, Chimaev could really help his cause if he defeats Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson in a potential main event clash.