Kamaru Usman has expressed uncertainty about Colby Covington's performance in his upcoming return at UFC Tampa following a one-year hiatus. Covington, who lost the title to Leon Edwards in December 2023, will face the aggressive Joaquin Buckley in the main event. Usman’s primary concern is Covington’s inactivity, as he believes it may hinder his ability to adapt quickly against Buckley’s explosive fighting style. Usman emphasizes that Buckley’s aggression will likely force Covington to struggle early in the matchup, and success depends on Covington effectively transitioning to grappling. Despite concerns, Usman views this fight as a valuable test for Covington to assess his status in the welterweight division.

By the Numbers
  • Colby Covington has a professional MMA record of 17 wins and 4 losses (12-4 in UFC).
  • Joaquin Buckley holds a record of 20 wins and 6 losses (10-4 in UFC).
Yes, But

Though Usman highlights concerns over Covington's inactivity, some argue that his previous experience and elite grappling skills might mitigate these issues. The fight's outcome also hinges on Buckley maintaining his intensity throughout the match, as early success could dictate Covington's ability to recover.

State of Play
  • Covington is returning from a lengthy layoff after his title defeat.
  • This matchup will serve as a critical gauge to evaluate Covington's standing in the welterweight division.
What's Next

Should Covington perform well against Buckley, he may reestablish himself as a serious contender in the welterweight rankings and set up potential future title shots. Conversely, a poor performance could endanger his status in the competitive landscape of the division.

Bottom Line

The outcome of Covington’s return fight at UFC Tampa will significantly impact his career trajectory, either reaffirming his elite status or casting doubts on his competitiveness in the welterweight division.