Colby Covington's Best Fights

What's up, fight fans! Today, we're diving deep into the career of one of the most polarizing and exciting fighters in the welterweight division: Colby Covington. "Chaos" has built a reputation for his relentless pressure, incredible cardio, and, let's be honest, his outspoken personality. But beyond the trash talk and the controversial moments, Covington is a legitimate force inside the Octagon. He's taken on some of the biggest names in the sport and has been in some absolute barnburners. So, grab your popcorn, guys, because we're about to break down some of Colby Covington's most memorable and defining fights. Get ready to relive the action, the drama, and the grit that "Chaos" brings to every single bout.

The Rise of Chaos: Early Career and Breakthroughs

Before he was a household name, Colby Covington was grinding his way up the welterweight ladder, honing his skills and proving his mettle. Many fans first took notice of Covington's potential during his UFC run, but his journey truly began with a strong amateur and early professional record. He joined the UFC in 2014, and while he showed flashes of brilliance, it wasn't an immediate explosion onto the scene. His early fights showcased his wrestling background, a fundamental aspect of his game that would become a cornerstone of his success. He secured wins against the likes of Anνας Abdulkadir, a tough opponent who tested his durability early on. However, it was his performance against Demian Maia in 2017 that truly catapulted him into the spotlight. This fight, while not a crowd-pleaser for everyone, was a masterclass in control and strategic wrestling. Covington utilized his exceptional takedowns and suffocating top control to nullify Maia's dangerous submission game. He weathered Maia's submission attempts and consistently kept the fight on the ground, dictating the pace and frustrating one of the greatest jiu-jitsu practitioners of all time. This victory was significant because it showed he could neutralize elite grapplers, a skill few welterweights possessed. It demonstrated his fight IQ and his ability to adapt his game plan to overcome formidable opponents. This win wasn't just about getting a "W"; it was a statement that Colby Covington was a legitimate contender, someone who could hang with the best and had a unique skillset that made him a dangerous matchup for anyone. He followed this up with another dominant performance against the durable and dangerous Rafael dos Anjos, further cementing his status as a top contender. This period marked the true emergence of "Chaos" as a force to be reckoned with, and fans were starting to pay serious attention to his unique brand of fighting.

The Championship Picture: Rivalries and Rematches

As Colby Covington continued his ascent, he inevitably found himself on a collision course with the division's elite, most notably Kamaru Usman. Their first encounter at UFC 245 in December 2019 was a brutal, back-and-forth war that many consider one of the greatest welterweight title fights in UFC history. Both fighters displayed incredible heart, skill, and determination. Covington, known for his relentless pressure and suffocating wrestling, was also landing significant strikes, even dropping Usman at one point. Usman, the "Nigerian Nightmare," showcased his own powerful striking and championship resilience. The fight was incredibly close, with momentum swinging back and forth. In the fifth round, a seemingly exhausted but still dangerous Covington was rocked by a heavy right hand from Usman, leading to a TKO victory for the champion. This fight, despite the loss for Covington, solidified his status as a top-tier contender and proved he could go toe-to-toe with the pound-for-pound best. The rematch at UFC 268 in November 2021 was highly anticipated, especially given the personal animosity between the two. This fight was another grueling five-round war. Covington adopted a slightly different strategy, focusing more on grappling and clinching, trying to wear Usman down. He had moments of success, even securing takedowns against the formidable wrestler. However, Usman once again proved to be the more effective striker, and despite Covington's best efforts, he fell short again via unanimous decision. These fights against Usman are defining moments in Colby Covington's career. They showcased his incredible toughness and his ability to compete at the highest level, even against a dominant champion. The narrative of "Chaos" challenging for and aiming to reclaim welterweight glory is central to his legacy, and these epic clashes with Usman are a huge part of that story. They represent the pinnacle of his competitive drive and his willingness to face the toughest challenges.

Beyond the Title Fights: Memorable Bouts and What's Next

While his championship fights against Kamaru Usman are undoubtedly the most significant, Colby Covington's career is littered with other compelling performances that deserve recognition. His trilogy bout against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 272 in March 2022 was highly personal and generated immense hype. Masvidal, a former teammate and friend turned bitter rival, brought a different kind of energy to the cage. Covington, embracing his heel persona, dominated the fight with his superior wrestling and striking control. He secured a decisive unanimous decision victory, further cementing his position as a top contender and settling a very public score. This fight was a testament to Covington's ability to shut out the noise and focus on the task at hand, neutralizing Masvidal's dangerous striking and jiu-jitsu. Another notable fight that showcased Covington's grit was his bout against Robbie Lawler. While not for a title, this fight was a brutal display of Covington's relentless pressure against a legendary veteran. He outworked and outpointed Lawler over three rounds, demonstrating his exceptional gas tank and his ability to impose his will on opponents. These fights, while not always for championship gold, are crucial in understanding Colby Covington's fighting style and his impact on the welterweight division. They highlight his consistency, his ability to adapt, and his unwavering determination to remain at the top. Looking ahead, Covington remains a dangerous force. While he's had his ups and downs in title pursuits, his place among the welterweight elite is undeniable. He continues to be a matchup nightmare for many, and his aggressive style and unwavering confidence ensure that he will always be a fighter to watch. Whether he's chasing another title shot or facing new challenges, Colby Covington's journey in the UFC is far from over, and fight fans are always eager to see what "Chaos" will bring to the Octagon next. He has proven time and again that he is a top-tier competitor with the heart and skill to go the distance with anyone in the stacked welterweight division.