Michael Chandler Criticizes Colby Covington's Lackluster Performance at UFC 296

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19/12/2023 22h05

Covington, who faced welterweight champion Leon Edwards in the main event, failed to impress with an unusually tentative approach in the early rounds of the fight.

Chandler, renowned for his outspoken nature, did not hold back in mocking Covington's performance. Referencing the United States' Declaration of Independence from Great Britain, he stated, "After three rounds, Colby has taken 1776 shots to the face and had zero offense. If Colby's offense was an accurate depiction of the U.S. military, we would have never gotten our independence, lost World War I and lost World War II."

Chandler's remarks reflect his belief that Covington's talkative nature prior to the fight did not match his performance inside the Octagon. He expressed disappointment in Covington's failure to back up his words.

The former lightweight champion was also questioned about the possibility of a future fight against Covington. However, Chandler made it clear that he has no interest in such a match-up at present, stating, "Not now, not after that performance. Colby should be fighting on the prelims. That's my opinion."

Covington, on the other hand, maintained that he won Rounds 3, 4, and 5, although the judges only awarded him the final round. Despite his argument, the lack of aggression and overall impact on Covington's part was evident throughout the fight.

Fans and critics alike were left unimpressed with Covington's performance, further cementing Chandler's sentiments. The welterweight division remains fiercely competitive, and such lackluster displays are unlikely to earn fighters favor with the fans or propel them closer to a title shot.

For more details and insights on UFC 296, fans can visit MMA Junkie's event hub dedicated to the event.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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