UFC

Colby Covington Surprisingly Comes to Islam Makhachev's Defense

Colby Covington surprisingly backs Islam Makhachev over UFC 336, questioning the interim title fight and the credentials of Carlos Prates and Michael Morales.

ByPranav Pandey

Colby Covington has come to Islam Makhachev’s defense amid the growing criticism surrounding the UFC welterweight champion’s decision not to compete at UFC 336.

Makhachev was initially expected to defend his title against Carlos Prates on January 30 in Toronto. However, the Russian declined the date, explaining that he wanted Prates and Michael Morales to face each other first to establish the leading contender.

The UFC subsequently booked the two welterweights to compete for the interim championship, a decision that has sparked debate among fighters and fans.

Colby Covington Questions UFC’s Decision to Introduce Interim Title

The former UFC interim welterweight titleholder believes Makhachev should not face criticism for requesting more time, particularly after defending his championship against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in August.

Speaking to MMA Junkie, the former interim welterweight champion argued that the UFC could have waited until after Ramadan to arrange Makhachev’s next title defense.

I was surprised, you know. Islam just fought, like two or three months ago, I thought, and he just had a title defense. Give him a little time to get through Ramadan. The January date for him didn’t work out, give him some time to fight him after Ramadan. Those guys aren’t worthy to be fighting for an interim title. What have those guys done?” Covington said.

“Chaos” also questioned Morales’ credentials, arguing that the undefeated contender had yet to face an established former champion or a previous title challenger.

Michael Morales has fought nobody. He’s been tested by nobody. He’s had an impressive win streak and some nice showcasing wins, but he hasn’t had, like, a premier marquee matchup, a main event shot with an ex-champ or a title challenger. So I don’t think that deserves to be an interim title,” he added.

Colby Covington defends Islam Makhachev from critics, rips Khamzat Chimaev before RAF Abu Dhabi

Colby Covington defends Islam Makhachev from critics, rips Khamzat Chimaev before RAF Abu Dhabi

Makhachev, meanwhile, has suggested that his remaining time in the sport could be limited. The 35-year-old recently revealed that his next appearance will be one of the last fights of his career, adding that he wants to face the best available opponent and further establish his legacy.