Usman dropping Covington (photo via UFC / YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Over the last couple of years, Kamaru Usman has established himself as one of the planet’s best, pound-for-pound fighters in the minds of many. But, bitter rival Colby Covington isn’t impressed with what the UFC’s welterweight champ has showcased in his recent outings.

Since Usman stopped Covington in the fifth round of their thrilling, 2019 bout, he’s won three more bouts. Two of those victories came over Jorge Masvidal, which saw Usman defeat the veteran by decision, before knocking him out this past August.

In Usman’s other bout, against Gilbert Burns in February, he stopped the former lightweight in round three. Due to these wins, and Usman’s 14-0 run in the UFC, he’s become one of the most respected fighters in combat sports.

Ahead of Covington’s rematch with Usman (19-1) at UFC 268, the controversial fighter spoke with ESPN. While discussing Usman’s recent victories, Covington made it clear he’s not impressed with what he’s seen (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“I haven’t seen anything,” Covington said. “I see the same fighter. He comes out with a heavy jab, has a big right hand. That’s kind of been the story of his career before, and that’s what he always went to in the past. So yeah, he’s knocking out lightweights, he’s knocking out guys that shouldn’t be in there with him. These are easy paychecks.”

Covington (16-2), meanwhile, has only fought once since he was stopped by Usman. The former interim champ recorded a TKO win over Tyron Woodley in September, 2020.

UFC 268 will take place on November 6th at Madison Square Garden in New York City.