Colby Covington remains unfazed by Tyron Woodley's recent comments regarding a potential matchup in Real American Freestyle (RAF), the wrestling promotion where Covington currently holds the championship title. The two fighters have a storied history, having previously faced off in the UFC, and the prospect of a rematch in the wrestling arena seemed likely to many fans and analysts alike.
Woodley, who has recently made his debut in RAF, was asked if he would be interested in a rematch with Covington on the wrestling mats. However, the former UFC welterweight champion dismissed the idea, which prompted Covington to respond with characteristic bravado. In an interview with MMA Junkie, Covington remarked, "If I were him, I wouldn’t want to revisit the past either. I wouldn’t want to go back to the ambulance taking me out in a stretcher." This reference to their previous fight highlights the intensity of their rivalry, with Covington recalling his promise to dominate Woodley, a promise he believes he fulfilled.
Covington's comments underscore his belief that Woodley is out of touch with reality, stating, "There hasn’t been a more delusional man in the existence of MMA than Tyron Woodley." He further emphasized his lack of need for a matchup with Woodley, asserting that he has already settled their score and is focused on his current obligations as champion.
While Covington acknowledges that a match against Woodley would be significant for RAF, he is confident in the depth of challengers available to him. "I don’t need him," Covington reiterated, mentioning that he has numerous fighters eager to challenge him for the title. He hinted at potential matchups with notable names such as Justin Gaethje, Kamaru Usman, and Gilbert Burns, all of whom have their own compelling stories and rivalries with Covington.
Covington's recent success in RAF includes winning the inaugural Cruiserweight Crossover Championship, which he secured with a points victory over Arman Tsarukyan in July. With a perfect record of 4-0 in the promotion, Covington is set to defend his title for the first time against Belal Muhammad on September 19 during the main event of RAF 13 in Miami. This upcoming title defense is a priority for Covington as he aims to solidify his legacy within the organization.
Despite Woodley's dismissive attitude, Covington remains open to the possibility of a future matchup, should Woodley express interest in competing for the title. He acknowledged Woodley’s credentials as a former All-American wrestler, stating, "He is a former All-American wrestler, so he’s worthy of getting an opportunity at this belt." Covington's willingness to entertain the idea reflects his desire to create the most exciting matchups possible within the sport.
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