Afraid of confusion, Ultimate removes Rafael dos Anjos x Colby Covington from UFC Rio

dos Anjos (left) must face Covington (right) for the interim belt. Photo: SL MMAPress Assembly

The confusion surrounding Conor McGregor at Media Day at UFC 222 brought problems to Brazil. The country would host the dispute for the interim welterweight belt (up to 77,1 kg.) between Rafael dos Anjos x Colby covington at UFC 224, May 12th. in Rio de Janeiro. But after the North American complained about death threats, in addition to the huge confusion caused by the Irishman this week, Ultimate decided to take precautions. The organization transferred the dispute to UFC 225, an event that takes place on June 9, in Chicago (USA).

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“I'm the king of Brazil, I'd like to go to Brazil to give them a show, but the Brazilian fans weren't ready for me, so Dana put the show in the US,” teased Covington.

In turn, Rafael minimized the fact that he won't fight at home and hopes to count on the Chicago fans in front of the loudmouth. “My last fight in Brazil was 10 years ago, I would love to fight there, but the place won't change the result. It will be great to beat this guy in his own country, with his compatriots rooting for me,” said RDA.

Understand the confusion

The confusion involving Covington and the Brazilian fans began during the UFC Sao Paulo, in October last year. The North American, who faced Demian Maia at the show, he provoked the fans throughout the week of the event and even said that 'Brazilians were dirty animals' in the interview while still in the octagon.

The controversy caused by the fighter had repercussions. On that occasion, the São Paulo fans threw several goals at the athlete. But anyone who thinks that the confusion has ended is mistaken. As soon as rumors about the fight against Rafael dos Anjos emerged, Covington began receiving death threats.

The athlete himself reported the threats to the North American ESPN. “It was kind of difficult to accept this fight. I know that people want me dead there (in Brazil). I received many death threats. They told me that they are offering money for my head, so they can kill me before I get into the Octagon.”

Covington's fear combined with the immense confusion caused by McGregor at UFC 223's Media Day, where three fights were cancelled, Ultimate decided to move the fight for the interim welterweight title to Chicago.