The tension between welterweight champion Leon Edwards and challenger Colby Covington has escalated once more.
During the UFC 296 pre-fight press conference, Covington’s controversial remarks about Edwards’ late father sparked a heated exchange that nearly led to a physical altercation.
Covington, known for his provocative trash talk, crossed a line by referencing Edwards’ deceased father in an attempt to get under the champion’s skin.
“On Saturday night, I’m going to bring you to a place you never want to be,” Covington shouted at Edwards. “I’m going to bring you to the seventh level of hell. We’ll say what’s up to your dad while we’re there.”
This comment was a direct reference to Edwards’ father, who was murdered in a London nightclub when Leon was just 13 years old.
The remark immediately triggered an intense reaction from Edwards, who responded by hurling a water bottle across the stage at Covington. Security intervened swiftly, preventing the situation from escalating further.
The MMA community has widely condemned Covington’s remarks, with many media members and fans expressing their disdain.
Comments like “Mentioning a deceased parent to try and get a rise out of someone is reprehensible” and “If Leon runs on Colby and does something to him, it’ll be completely justified” reflect the general sentiment that such personal attacks are unacceptable, even in the context of promoting a fight.
Fans have also voiced their opinions, labeling Covington’s actions as “disgusting” and a “low move.”
“DAMN this is the lowest I’ve heard someone go in a while. No wonder Masvidal did what he did,” one fan stated.
“I know Colby goes hard with the trash talk but that was just disgusting. It wasn’t funny and it’s quite embarrassing he decided to stoop so low,” another said.
This incident has transformed the upcoming fight into a personal grudge match, with emotions running high on both sides.