Colby Ray Covington Bio
Colby Ray Covington (born February 22, 1988) is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the Welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is a former Interim UFC Welterweight Champion known for his wrestling expertise and outspoken personality, which has made him a polarizing figure in MMA.
Early Life and Background
Covington was born in Clovis, California, and moved to Oregon at age eight. His father was a collegiate wrestler, influencing Covington’s early interest in wrestling. He attended Thurston High School in Springfield, Oregon, where he excelled in wrestling, winning a state championship as a senior.
He initially committed to Arizona State University but attended Iowa Central Community College due to academic reasons. There, he won a national junior college wrestling title with an undefeated record. Later, he transferred to Oregon State University, becoming a two-time Pac-10 champion and earning All-American honors. Covington graduated with a sociology degree in 2011.
Path to MMA
After completing his collegiate wrestling career, Covington transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2012. He was recruited by Dan Lambert to American Top Team to enhance their wrestling talent. Covington quickly compiled an undefeated professional record before signing with the UFC in 2014.
His wrestling background and grappling skills formed the foundation of his MMA style, and he earned a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Covington’s early MMA success set the stage for his rise in the UFC welterweight ranks.
Colby Ray Covington Career
Early Career (2012–2014)
Covington began his professional MMA career in 2012, quickly establishing himself with a 5–0 record. His debut in the UFC came in August 2014, where he won by TKO in the first round. Early victories included wins by submission and decision, showcasing his versatility.
During this period, he trained with American Top Team, honing his wrestling and striking skills. His aggressive style and cardio endurance became notable traits as he progressed through the ranks.
UFC Breakthrough (2014–2018)
Covington steadily climbed the welterweight ladder with key wins over opponents such as Mike Pyle and Bryan Barberena. In 2017, he defeated Demian Maia by unanimous decision, marking a significant milestone. His wrestling dominance and relentless pace were critical to his success.
In June 2018, Covington captured the Interim UFC Welterweight Championship by defeating Rafael dos Anjos. This victory solidified his status as a top contender. However, due to surgery, he was unable to unify the title later that year and was eventually stripped of the interim belt.
MMA Masters Era (2020–Present)
In 2020, Covington left American Top Team and joined MMA Masters. He headlined UFC Fight Night 178 against Tyron Woodley, winning by technical knockout after Woodley suffered a rib injury. Covington continued to face top competition, including two title fights against Kamaru Usman, both resulting in losses but earning Fight of the Night honors.
He defeated Jorge Masvidal in 2022 by unanimous decision and remained an active contender in the welterweight division. Covington’s recent bouts have demonstrated his resilience and ability to maintain a high pace despite setbacks.
Driving Style and Strengths
Covington fights primarily out of a southpaw stance, leveraging his wrestling and grappling background. He applies relentless pressure, aiming to take opponents down and control them with ground-and-pound. His cardio allows him to maintain an intense pace over five rounds, wearing down adversaries.
Notable Events and Milestones
Covington set a UFC record for most strikes thrown in a bout with 541 strikes against Robbie Lawler in 2019. He is known for his outspoken persona and trash-talking, which has generated significant media attention and controversy throughout his career.
Colby Ray Covington Career Wins
Colby Covington has amassed 17 professional wins in mixed martial arts, with victories achieved by knockout, submission, and decision. His record reflects his well-rounded skill set and competitive longevity in the UFC welterweight division.
UFC Highlights
Covington’s UFC career includes notable wins over Demian Maia, Rafael dos Anjos, and Robbie Lawler. His interim welterweight title win in 2018 stands as a career highlight. He has been recognized for his high-volume striking and dominant wrestling performances in key bouts.
Other Wins & Performances
Before joining the UFC, Covington compiled an undefeated record in regional promotions. He also earned a gold medal at the 2013 FILA Grappling no-gi world championships, underscoring his grappling credentials.
Colby Ray Covington Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Covington’s father was a collegiate wrestler, which influenced his early involvement in wrestling. No additional verified family details are publicly available.
Personal Life
Covington resides in Miami, Florida. There is no verified public information regarding his marital status or children.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Covington remains an active competitor in the UFC welterweight division. He continues to train with MMA Masters and aims to regain a title shot. His focus is on leveraging his wrestling dominance and cardio to secure key victories and maintain his position among the division’s elite.