Colby Covington's Explosive Reaction to White House UFC Exclusion
Colby Covington, the outspoken UFC fighter and vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, has unleashed a blistering tirade after being left off the promotion's historic White House fight card. The event, scheduled for June 14th, will celebrate both President Trump's 80th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the United States, featuring an Octagon constructed on the South Lawn.
A Snub That Stings
Despite his well-documented friendship with Donald Trump and UFC president Dana White, Covington's name was conspicuously absent from the six-fight lineup unveiled last weekend. The former interim welterweight champion, who famously brought his belt to the Oval Office in 2018, expressed deep disappointment at the oversight.
"I thought that I was a shoo-in for that spot," Covington told MMA Junkie. "I'm the one that brought Trump into UFC back in 2018, when no one was supporting him. There wasn't an athlete alive that was walking around Times Square supporting him like I was."
Covington highlighted his early and public support for Trump, including wearing MAGA attire during media tours, and expected recognition for his loyalty. He chose not to appeal directly to Trump, stating the president has "way more important things to worry about" like maintaining world peace.
Scathing Critique of the Fight Card
In a subsequent interview with Submission Radio, Covington's frustration escalated. He labeled the White House card "piss-poor at best" and criticized its organization and fighter selection.
"The fans have said they hate it, it's a terrible card," he asserted. "They promised six or seven title fights. Now they have one title fight and an interim-title fight they put together last minute."
Covington questioned the representation of American fighters on the historic occasion, noting the inclusion of 40-year-old Michael Chandler and Sean O'Malley, but lacking what he called a definitive American representative. The main event features American Justin Gaethje challenging Ilia Topuria for the lightweight title, though Topuria is considered a heavy favourite.
Financial and Professional Frustrations
The 38-year-old fighter voiced concerns about his career stagnation, having not fought in 15 months. He suggested the UFC plans to match him with the winner of the Gilbert Burns vs Mike Malott bout in April, which would delay his return until late in the year.
"What do you want me to do? You want me to sit here and just twiddle my thumbs?" Covington exclaimed. "Like, what the f*** am I supposed to do to earn money, dude? I wanna pay my bills, man."
He expressed feeling profoundly disrespected by the UFC, recalling times he "put the company on my back" while being underpaid. Covington claimed he earned mere $30,000 for events that generated millions for the promotion, and now faces constant questions from fans about his fighting hiatus.
Event Details and Contradictions
The White House event will see 85,000 free tickets distributed for access to a park near the presidential residence, though ringside seating remains extremely limited. American middleweights Bo Nickal and Kyle Daukaus are confirmed for the card, with Nickal claiming he was initially offered a bout against Covington—a claim the snubbed fighter vehemently denies.
Covington's absence marks a significant omission given his political alignment and history with the guest of honour. His fiery comments underscore the deepening rift between the fighter and the promotion he once championed, casting a shadow over what was intended as a celebratory spectacle.
