UFC 296: Unveiling the Two Faces of Colby Covington – From Fist Bumps to Verbal Jabs
Colby Covington, the enigmatic figure in the world of UFC, is a man of contrasts. On one hand, we see a polite and friendly Covington, greeting the BBC with a friendly fist bump and taking time to engage with fans, even offering career advice on YouTube. This softer side of him often remains hidden from the public eye.
But when the cameras roll and the spotlight shines, a different Colby Covington emerges – the villain, the agitator, the provocateur. He deliberately steers his character into the ugly, crossing lines that most would deem off-limits, all in the pursuit of one thing: generating interest.
In a recent incident that sent shockwaves through the UFC community, Covington made a repulsive comment about Leon Edwards’ late father during a pre-fight news conference. It’s a stark contrast to the Covington who gave career advice to a fan on YouTube just days earlier.
Covington himself describes this transformation, saying, “I wouldn’t say that I have a persona, I just decided to turn myself up to 11. I talk the talk and I walk the walk. Who cares what people think about me?”
His attire, a flamboyant red and white suit featuring a large Donald Trump mugshot, further adds to his eccentric image. Covington proudly states, “I’m Colby ‘Chaos’ Covington. I’m the people’s champ, I’m America’s champ, I’m the king of Miami, but most importantly, I’m Donald Trump’s favorite fighter.” It’s a persona that grabs attention and divides opinions.
But this calculated transformation didn’t happen overnight. In 2017, facing the possibility of being released from the UFC for not being entertaining enough, Covington decided to take a different path. After defeating Brazilian Demian Maia, he delivered an inflammatory post-fight speech that insulted Brazilians, earning him widespread notoriety. It was a turning point in his career, as he realized that being controversial and playing the villain could get people talking about him.
However, this approach has come with its fair share of criticism. Covington has been accused of crossing the line into discrimination, with comments on Brazilians in 2017 and allegations of racism in 2020. Despite the backlash, he remains unapologetic, asserting, “Most people want to be liked by everybody, I don’t care about being liked. You can hate me, but you’ll tune in to watch me fight.”
Covington’s tactics are reminiscent of the world of professional wrestling, particularly the WWE, where antagonists play a crucial role in building storylines and attracting attention. He even walks out to fights with former WWE champion Kurt Angle’s theme music, embracing the boos and chants from the crowd.
“A lot of the psychology I take from the WWE,” Covington explains. “It’s all about the fans of the UFC, the fans of the sport, and giving them an entertaining show, making them forget about whatever’s going on in their life and giving them a show.”
Behind the flamboyant suits, the provocative comments, and the larger-than-life persona, one thing remains constant – Colby Covington’s unwavering dedication to chasing his dreams in the world of UFC. He may be a polarizing figure, but he’s a fearless hard worker who knows how to make waves in and out of the Octagon.
As Covington puts it, “I was delayed, but I will not be denied.” Whether you love him or hate him, Colby Covington is here to stay, and he’s not apologizing for it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Colby Covington
Q: Who is Colby Covington outside of the UFC persona?
A: Outside of his UFC persona, Colby Covington can be polite, friendly, and even engages with fans, offering career advice on platforms like YouTube. He has a softer side that isn’t always visible in the public eye.
Q: Why does Colby Covington adopt a controversial persona in the UFC?
A: Covington deliberately adopts a controversial persona in the UFC to generate interest and attention. He believes that being the villain and stirring controversy is a way to stand out in a crowded field of fighters.
Q: Has Colby Covington faced criticism for his controversial tactics?
A: Yes, Colby Covington has faced criticism for his controversial tactics. He has been accused of crossing the line into discrimination, particularly in his comments about Brazilians in 2017 and allegations of racism in 2020. Despite the backlash, he remains unapologetic.
Q: How has Colby Covington’s controversial approach impacted his career?
A: Colby Covington’s controversial approach has both helped and hindered his career. While it has generated attention and helped him secure high-profile fights, it has also led to widespread criticism and backlash. He has fought for the title twice but lost both bouts to Kamaru Usman.
Q: What role has WWE played in Colby Covington’s persona?
A: WWE, particularly the psychology and character development seen in professional wrestling, has influenced Colby Covington’s persona. He incorporates elements of WWE-style antagonism and crowd engagement into his UFC appearances, walking out to fights with former WWE champion Kurt Angle’s theme music.
Q: How does Colby Covington describe his approach to public opinion?
A: Colby Covington doesn’t prioritize being liked by everyone. He is unapologetic about his controversial statements and believes that people may hate him, but they will still tune in to watch him fight. He places a higher emphasis on entertaining the fans of UFC and the sport itself.
More about Colby Covington
- Colby Covington – Official UFC Profile
- Colby Covington’s Controversial Comments – ESPN
- Colby Covington’s WWE Influences – The Sun
- Colby Covington’s Career Highlights and Controversies – BBC Sport
3 comments
colby is totaly like marmite, u either love him or hate him. he do his thing 2 get attenshun!
Covington’s WWE inspird styll makes UFC more entertanin, even if he goez 2 far sumtymes. it’s all bout teh show, man.
this guy colby, he don’t hold back, not 1 bit. he don’t care if u like him or not, he’s in it 4 the fight, not the fame.