Covington calls Thompson a 'joke' and suggests retirement of division 'colleague'

C. Covington heads to the UFC Octagon. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Favorite to face Kamaru Usman in the Nigerian's next title defense, Colby covington Keep an eye on movements in the welterweight division (up to 77kg.). Always provocative, the North American, this time, turned against Stephen Thompson, suggesting that the athlete retire. In an interview with 'What the heck', the 'loudmouth' also mocked his compatriot's fighting style.

“The guy is a joke. He thinks he's cool with his karate. He doesn't deserve anything. Honestly, he should probably retire,” Covington said.

Without pausing in his criticism, Colby also mocked Thompson's age, who is now 38 years old. According to the 'loudmouth', the athlete should not continue performing against high-level opponents.

“For sure, he's going to get hurt. He's going to come back for a payday and these guys don't know when to stop. You have to know when it's time to hang up the gloves. Your time has passed. (…) Some guys want to get paid and ruin their health,” she said.

Finally, Covington also questioned the number of title fights held by Stephen. For 'Chaos', Thompson, who fought for the title on two occasions, should not have another opportunity.

“This guy needs to stop complaining. He had what, two or three title fights? He had more than anyone else in the category. He was destroyed by (Tyron) Woodley. He was dripping with blood. It’s silly,” he concluded.

Current number four in the ranking led by Usman, Stephen has a fight scheduled for July 10, when he faces Gilbert Durinho. If he overcomes the Brazilian, the karateka could get closer to a new chance to perform with the belt.

Behind only Kamaru in the division, Covington is negotiating a rematch against the champion, to whom he lost in December 2019. The UFC president, although he did not confirm the date, guaranteed that the North American will be the current champion's next opponent.