Colby Covington amplified his admiration for U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump as he prepared for the UFC Tampa main event. The fighter’s controversial persona has been significantly shaped by his unwavering support for Trump, both in the political realm and beyond. Although he has strained relationships with many of his peers in the fighting world, he enjoys a dedicated fan in Trump, who attended Covington’s last title fight at UFC 296.
Before his showdown with Joaquin Buckley, Covington exuded his characteristic confidence while arriving at the Amalie Arena in Tampa. This event marked Covington’s first appearance in a UFC Fight Night since his victory over Tyron Woodley in September 2020, underscoring his return to main event status.
Despite the smaller venue, Covington made a statement with his attire on Saturday night. Captured by UFC cameramen, he sported a Trump-themed gold chain along with a ‘Make America Great Again’ hat, even kissing the chain in a gesture that he hoped would bring him good luck in the octagon.
The moment quickly went viral on social media, leading fans to express their disbelief and amusement at Covington’s antics. Comments ranged from comparing him to someone desperately seeking Trump’s approval to expressing disappointment in his behavior, with some humorously noting the oddity of a grown man acting so reverential toward another.
Unfortunately, Trump was not present for the UFC Tampa event as he gears up for his impending return to The White House after winning a second term by defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election.
Covington is in a precarious situation as he faces Buckley; he finds himself in a ‘must-win’ scenario, as another loss could jeopardize his chances for a welterweight title shot amidst new contenders rising in the division.
Before this matchup, Covington faced a setback, losing to Leon Edwards by unanimous decision at UFC 296. During that fight, Trump was cageside as Covington suffered a leg injury early on and couldn’t keep pace with Edwards’s striking.
The fighter is determined to reclaim the form that earned him victories over notable names like Jorge Masvidal, Robbie Lawler, and Rafael dos Anjos. Despite his dedication to Trump, Covington does not hold the title of Trump’s favorite fighter, which might belong to Khabib Nurmagomedov, though Covington has speculated on the reasoning behind that choice.
Stay updated with all the latest news from UFC Tampa: Covington vs. Buckley right here at Bloody Elbow.
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