UFC CEO Dana White didn’t mince words when discussing Colby Covington’s performance against Leon Edwards at UFC 296.
In the post-fight press conference, White highlighted Covington’s lackluster effort, suggesting that age and a period of inactivity might have played a role in his defeat.
White pointed out, “When you’re 35 years old, and in this sport, waiting is never a good idea. This sport doesn’t wait for anybody.”
He emphasized that Covington, who had been out of the octagon for nearly two years, appeared “slow” and struggled to cope with Edwards’ speed.
“He got out wrestled,” White added, noting that Edwards also managed to significantly damage Covington’s leg.
The UFC boss also touched on the broader implications of waiting for title shots in MMA.
“Your windows are very short, and you never know once you start getting up into your mid-30s when you’re going to show up and just not look like you anymore,” he said. This comment underlines a critical aspect of MMA – the unpredictability and fleeting nature of an athlete’s prime.
Regarding Edwards’ performance, White praised the reigning welterweight champion for his speed and ability to handle Covington’s wrestling.
“Leon looked good. Leon looked fast,” he remarked, acknowledging Edwards’ comprehensive victory.
Covington’s strategy, or lack thereof, was also a point of discussion. White observed that Covington spent the first three rounds mostly on his backfoot, engaging minimally with Edwards.
This approach, coupled with his apparent ring rust, contributed to his inability to mount a significant challenge against Edwards.
In a sport where athletes’ careers are often short-lived and the competition is fierce, White’s critique of Covington serves as a reminder of the high stakes and rapid pace of change in MMA.
Covington’s performance at UFC 296, as described by White, is a case study in the risks of prolonged inactivity and the challenges faced by aging fighters in maintaining their edge.