UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards isn’t holding back his thoughts on Colby Covington’s title shot at UFC 296.
In a recent interview with Damon Martin from MMA Fighting, Leon Edwards, known for his straightforward approach, questioned the legitimacy of Covington’s opportunity to fight for the title at UFC 296.
When asked if he could explain why Colby Covington received the title shot, Edwards replied, “I can’t explain it to you, no,” expressing his bafflement at the UFC’s decision.
He went on to add, “He beat [Tyron] Woodley and beat a guy in MMA that’s already about to walk out the door, then sat out for two years and got a shot.”
Edwards, who has not lost in his last 12 fights, didn’t shy away from criticizing Covington’s path to the title shot. “He turned down all the fights that were offered to him, all the call outs that called him out, and got like some spoiled brat syndrome, wanting to get what he didn’t work for,” he said.
When asked about Covington’s fighting style, Edwards acknowledged his opponent’s capabilities but also pointed out weaknesses. “He’s okay, he’s a good solid fighter… but there are a lot of holes in his game,” Edwards remarked. He further elaborated on Covington’s reliance on cardio over skill, suggesting that Covington’s previous victories were against fighters past their prime.
Edwards also touched on the mental aspect of the fight, emphasizing his ability to shut out the noise and focus on the task at hand. He described Covington’s trash talk as reminiscent of “a typical American jock,” likening him to a character from a movie rather than a serious threat.
Looking ahead to the fight, Edwards expressed his desire to not just win, but to decisively defeat Covington. “This is his fourth title shot, this one he didn’t earn one bit,” Edwards said, indicating his intention to be the “last nail in his coffin.”
Edwards remains focused and confident before UFC 296, ready to defend his title and prove his dominance in the welterweight division.