Dana White claims that Colby Covington is next in line to challenge Leon Edwards for the UFC welterweight title, after the British fighter defended his belt in a five-round war against Kamaru Usman at UFC 286.
UFC President Dana White has confirmed that Leon Edwards’ next title defense will be against Colby Covington.
Edwards made history on Saturday night after making the first defense of his UFC welterweight title against Kamaru Usman at the O2 Arena.
The British boxer came out on top after the five-round war, with all three judges scoring 48-46, 48-46 and 47-47 in his favour.
The night was attended by several celebrities and UFC fighters, including Colby ‘Chaos’ Covington, who was set to step in as a backup fighter for the main event.
And, after the card was finished, company president White confirmed that the American would be next in line for a title shot.
Dana White Claims Colby Covington Will Get Next Welterweight Title Shot
Leon Edwards defended his welterweight title in a five round war against Kamaru Usman
Speaking on Saturday night, White was asked if he was open to the idea of Covington getting the next title shot, to which he replied: ‘Yeah, that’s the fight that makes sense. Colby Covington came here, cut weight and was ready… he deserves the fight.’
Following his response, White was asked if that was scheduled for Edwards’ next fight, and he confirmed: “Yes.”
Edwards was also asked about a possible fight with Covington in the future, but the Brit seemed less than impressed with the idea.
Speaking at the post-fight press conference, Edwards said: ‘I don’t know how that makes sense. He hasn’t fought in over a year and a half. I don’t understand how he slides for a world title shot.
‘I’m the king now, I’ve earned my way. I feel like I have to decide who’s next,’ Edwards said.
Covington hasn’t set foot in the Octagon since his decision win over Jorge Masvidal in March 2022, but he is at the top of the welterweight contender list.
The 31-year-old Edwards put on a tactical masterclass against the ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ over five rounds to earn a win in his first title defense.
UFC president Dana White suggested Covington ‘deserves’ a fight with Edwards
Reflecting on the fight, White said: ‘It was a tough fight to score. He was literally just standing there and not knowing what was going to happen.
‘I expected more wrestling from Usman. When he tried it, Leon did a great job. Especially when you compare it to the first fight.
Edwards received a point deduction in the third round after holding on to the cage as Usman attempted a takedown.
Fortunately for the Birmingham boxer, it was inexpensive as he put in an impressive performance and secured the historic victory at the O2 Arena.