Colby Covington claims to have suffered a "brain injury" in an alleged attack by former teammate turned UFC rival Jorge Masvidal.
Masvidal allegedly ran up to a man without notice and punched him twice in the face with a closed fist outside a restaurant in Miami last month. The victim, who wasn’t named in the original police report, was said to have suffered a chipped tooth, wrist abrasion and damaged watch.
Covington has now been named as the victim in updated charges and in addition to the original injuries, he is said to have also suffered a "brain injury" from the alleged attack. The updated charges state Masvidal committed aggravated battery on Covington by striking him "with a deadly weapon, to wit: hand(s) or fist(s) and/or did knowingly and intentionally cause great bodily harm, to wit: brain injury."
A trial date could be set by judge Zachary James at the next court date for the case on May 12. Masvidal maintained the same not guilty pleas for the aggravated battery and criminal mischief counts as he did following his arrest on March 23.
Masvidal has been issued with a "stay-away" order from Covington after the alleged attack. He must keep 25 feet away from him and 500 feet away from his residence. As part of the order, Masvidal also is not allowed to contact Covington directly or indirectly. The stay-away order was issued as Covington said he is “in fear” of Masvidal.
The MMA veteran could face up to 15 years in prison if found guilty of his charges. He could be handed a $10,000 fine for second-degree felony aggravated battery with extra penalties possible for the criminal mischief charge.
Masvidal is alleged to have worn a blue surgical mask and hooded jumper during the alleged attack. Florida deems any "device that conceals his or her identity" could elevate an aggravated battery charge to a first-degree offence. This could lead to a prison sentence of up to 30 years.
Masvidal’s legal counsel is expected to file a motion requesting a medical check of Covington and an inspection of his allegedly damaged Rolex watch. Masvidal, who was released on a $5,000 bond after his arrest, has only addressed the alleged assault as “ a mutual combatance with another athlete.”
