Bragging rights went to Colby Covington on Saturday night as he defeated friend-turned-rival Jorge Masvidal in a seismic grudge match in the main event of UFC 272.
Allegations of unpaid coaching fees, debts to loan sharks, poor parenting and more dominated the back and forths between the former roommates and training partners, leading to their clash in a sold-out T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. In the first two rounds, Covington was warned over an eye poke and lost a position due to a low blow, and he also survived a scare later in the fight after being dropped by an overhand right from Masvidal.
The wrestling specialist dominated the majority of the contest, however, taking down his rival numerous times and seeking chokes against the fence throughout. Covington ultimately secured a unanimous-decision win (49-46, 50-44, 50-45) and proceeded to call out another former teammate in Dustin Poirier, who has teased a move up from lightweight. “I just took care of Miami street trash, now it’s time to take care of Louisiana swamp trash,” Covington said, a US flag draped around his shoulders. “Where you at, Dustin Poirier? You said it’s ‘on sight’. I’ll see you soon, you’re next.”
Re-live updates from the UFC 272 prelims, main card and main event, below.