Colby Covington is closing in on a year since his last appearance inside the Octagon, but according to Ali Abdelaziz, the UFC is looking to book Covington’s return against streaking welterweight contender Belal Muhammad.
Abdelaziz represents some of the biggest names in MMA including Kamaru Usman, Justin Gaethje, Henry Cejudo, and Kayla Harrison. Another big name on his roster of combat sports superstars is Belal Muhammad. Riding an eight-fight win streak, ‘Remember the Name’ is on the cusp of a UFC welterweight title opportunity. In an interview with The Schmo, Abdelaziz revealed that the UFC is interested in pitting Muhammad against the returning Colby Covington.
If that weren’t exciting enough, the Dominance MMA founder claimed that the promotion is interested in booking the top-five fighters for an upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter before a showdown inside the Octagon.
“The UFC reached out to me and said Belal vs. Colby coaching The Ultimate Fighter. We said yes. Nobody can find Colby. Nobody knows where he’s at. Last time I heard he was at the UFC PI (performance institute) was for securities. I don’t know why. Now Masvidal is fighting. I don’t know if he’s trying to sue Masvidal. Trying to cash in or trying to do what, but fight or just leave the sport. Or get out of the rankings. Belal should be fighting for the title to be honest with you. I don’t care what anybody says.
“The UFC very much saying they are working on a Colby Covington fight. This is the right fight and there’s no doubt in my mind Belal [will] beat him and he’ll find Kamaru (Usman). The winner of Kamaru/Leon.”
With the latest welterweight fight announcements, Belal Muhammad now his his eyes on one name.
#2 Colby Covington vs. #4 Belal Muhammad. Is this the fight to make? #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/uHZkfq4Cde
— MMA DIRT (@MMADIRTcom) January 28, 2023
Colby Covington Closes in on One Year Since His Last Appearance Inside the Octagon
Belal Muhammad’s most recent appearance came at UFC 280 in October. ‘Remember the Name’ delivered a buzz-worthy performance by knocking out the previously undefeated Sean Brady in spectacular fashion.
Colby Covington is 9-2 in his last 11 fights with both losses coming against then-welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. His last appearance was at UFC 272 in March. ‘Chaos’ squared off with former friend turned bitter rival Jorge Masvidal in a main event grudge match. Covington earned a unanimous decision victory, but the fight was far from over. Roughly two weeks later, Masvidal allegedly ambushed Covington outside of a Miami steakhouse. Covington suffered a chipped tooth and an abrasion on his wrist stemming from the attack.
Masvidal was charged with aggravated battery resulting in great bodily harm and criminal mischief. He is expected to face trial later this month.
