Colby Covington says he was ready to fight at the UFC White House card on June 14, but the promotion never gave him the chance. Known for his outspoken personality and political stances, Covington thought he would be a natural choice for the historic event celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
“I thought that I was a shoo-in for that spot,” Covington said. “I’m the one that brought Trump into UFC back in 2018 when no one was supporting him … I thought I was going to get that call to represent the U.S. and get on that White House card. Unfortunately it wasn’t in their cards. Hunter didn’t give me the opportunity, the UFC didn’t give me the opportunity.”
Refuting Rumors About Bo Nickal
Despite rumors and claims from fellow fighter Bo Nickal that Covington avoided fighting him, the former UFC interim welterweight champion insists the UFC simply did not present him with that option.
“Not true, Hunter and UFC never entertained or offered that fight,” Covington said. “He’s a quitter. Why would UFC give me a quitter to fight? I would’ve loved to take that fight at the White House. It’s an easy fight. He can’t strike, he can’t wrestle and hold me down. It would be an easy fight.”
Limited Fight Options Offered
Covington revealed that he asked for multiple potential opponents but was left with very limited options. The only fight offered was against the winner of Mike Malott vs. Gilbert Burns on April 18 in Winnipeg, Canada.
“I asked for multiple names. I left it in their court many times and said, ‘Hunter, I’ll fight any man alive … They didn’t have anybody. The only person they’ve offered me is the winner of Malott vs. Burns,’” he said. “I accepted. I said, ‘OK, I’ll wait until the end of the year to fight if that’s what you guys want and is in your plans. It’s your company, UFC. It’s your company, Hunter Campbell. Whatever you want. I listen to you. I’m the company man. You’re the face that runs the place, Hunter. You make these decisions. If you don’t think I’m worthy of the White House card, then so be it. That’s your call.’ I’ve accepted everything that they’ve given to me.”
While missing the card disappointed him, Covington will stay active in wrestling. He is scheduled to face Dillon Danis at Real American Freestyle 07 in Tampa, Florida, on March 28. Until the UFC provides another fight opportunity, that may be his main platform for competition.
