Colby Covington Steps Away from Politics, Citing Concerns Over “Dirty” Nature
Colby Covington built his entire fighting persona around politics and controversy for nearly a decade. The former three-time UFC welterweight title challenger embraced the MAGA movement and made it central to his identity. He wore red hats to press conferences and incorporated political talking points into his trash talk. That approach elevated his profile significantly even though it divided the fanbase completely. Some fans loved his outspoken political stance while others despised him for mixing combat sports with divisive rhetoric.
Now, in a surprising turn, Covington is walking away from the political world he embraced so publicly ahead of his Real American Freestyle wrestling match. The 38 year old fighter revealed his decision in an interview with Bloody Elbow before facing Dillon Danis at RAF 07. His comments suggest genuine disillusionment with the political system after years of active involvement and campaigning.
Colby Covington Feels Loyalty Goes Unrewarded in Politics
Colby Covington spoke candidly about why he’s abandoning his political persona moving forward from this point. The fighter who once dreamed of becoming Florida’s governor now wants nothing to do with campaigns. He specifically mentioned that loyalty never gets rewarded in the political game he once enthusiastically played.
“You know, I love Trump, he’s a great guy, but I’m not really political. In the future, you won’t see me campaigning or actively involved in politics. I don’t want to be a part of it anymore. It’s a dirty game, and loyalty is never rewarded.”
Covington’s disillusionment likely stems partly from getting snubbed from the UFC White House card scheduled for June 14th. He campaigned heavily for a spot on that historic event given his political connections. Many assumed his relationship with Donald Trump would guarantee him a featured spot on the card. Instead, the UFC left him off completely without explanation for the exclusion.
The former title challenger admitted he was initially frustrated when he learned about the snub. He said things to media outlets he probably shouldn’t have shared in the heat of anger. But after reflecting on the situation, Covington claims he’s made peace with not fighting at the White House. He pointed out that he’s already delivered a championship belt to Trump in the Oval Office previously. He’s attended multiple election night events and toured the West Wing during his political involvement.
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New Focus on Business Ventures Instead
Colby Covington’s ambitions have shifted dramatically from political office to business ventures according to his recent comments. He mentioned his previous dreams of becoming governor of Florida, a senator, or congressman. Those political aspirations have been completely abandoned in favor of different priorities that keep him away from campaigns.
“My dream before was to be the governor of Florida, a senator, a congressman. Nah — now I just want to do business with Real American Beer, RAF, and mind my own business in peace.”
The timing of this announcement raises obvious questions about whether Covington will reinvent himself with a completely new persona. His political character defined him for nearly a decade of his fighting career. Removing that element leaves a significant void in how he promotes fights and generates interest. Will he revert back to his pre-2016 personality before adopting the MAGA persona originally?
For now, Covington focuses on his Real American Freestyle wrestling match against Dillon Danis this Saturday at RAF 07. The co-main event takes place at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida. Whether Covington truly abandons politics permanently or this represents temporary frustration remains to be seen over time.
(Image Credit: Marca)
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