Long-serving UFC veteran Colby Covington, previously known for his staunch loyalty, has publicly unleashed a scathing critique against the mixed martial arts promotion. He accuses the UFC of unfair treatment and actively obstructing his career progression and earning potential.
Covington, who has dedicated over a decade to competing within the octagon, expressed profound frustration over being kept inactive for an extended period. “They just have me sitting around for the last 14 months doing nothing,” Covington stated, highlighting a significant lack of fight opportunities. He claims the UFC has failed to offer him a single bout, despite contractual obligations that stipulate three fights per year. “I’m not trying to get into a suing match… but it’s just not fair to me,” he added, emphasizing the financial strain. “Not only are you not giving me a chance to earn, you’re not letting me earn anywhere else.”
A key point of contention for Covington is the UFC’s alleged interference with his attempts to compete in external ventures. He revealed that the promotion blocked his planned participation in a Real American Freestyle (RAF) wrestling match against fellow MMA fighter Arman Tsarukyan. Covington had previously enjoyed success in RAF and saw the potential for a high-profile matchup.
He challenged the UFC’s inconsistent stance regarding fighter status: “We’re treated as independent contractors, but they’re treating me like an employee right now.” Covington explained that the UFC cited a policy against active fighters competing against each other outside the promotion, which he views as a direct contradiction to his independent contractor status. “How does that make sense? We’re independent contractors, but you’re treating me like an employee,” he questioned, illustrating the perceived hypocrisy.
Covington also recounted past grievances, alleging that the UFC “stole” his interim title and crucial pay-per-view earnings. This, he claims, occurred because he refused a short-notice fight offer just four weeks after a grueling five-round world title bout and with a scheduled nasal surgery. “That would have been the biggest payday of my career, and they cost me that,” he lamented, feeling continually “done dirty” throughout his tenure.
“Every step of the way, I’ve been treated like sh*t, and I’ve tried to play the company role, but you know, I’m just over it, man,” Covington concluded, expressing his deep exasperation. He articulated a feeling of helplessness, noting that despite his long service and efforts to cooperate, he feels there’s “nothing we can do about it” when the promotion actively restricts his ability to earn a living.
