While the welterweight title picture appears to be somewhat laid out, a significant amount of debate still surrounds the pecking order.

Ever since reigning champion Leon Edwards defended the title in a rematch with Kamaru Usman at UFC 286 this past March, the promotion has made its plans clear, insisting that former interim titleholder Colby Covington will fight for the belt next.

With “Chaos” having not fought in over a year, losing championship bouts in two of his last four fights, and not boasting victories over any currently ranked names, many have criticized the UFC’s decision.

The latest to do so hasn’t minced his words when assessing the promotion’s preference…

Chimaev Becomes Latest To Criticize Covington Title Shot

During a recent sit-down interview uploaded to his YouTube channel, the #3-ranked Khamzat Chimaev gave his take on the current landscape at 170 pounds, which would seemingly have Belal Muhammad lined up to face the winner of Edwards vs. Covington.

According to “Borz,” Covington certainly shouldn’t be getting another opportunity at the divisional gold. The fact that he is, Chimaev believes, could come down to a factor outside of fighting.

“They’re giving it to Colby, that (next title shot). When did he win his last fight? I don’t remember who he wins against,” Chimaev said. “He’s a nobody, he wins against nobodies. Usman broke his chin two times. He knocked out that guy. He’s sh*t. And they give that chance to him because maybe he’s from the USA. They want the belt for him. I am from Sweden, live in Dubai. Maybe they don’t want to give that belt to me. Only that thing I see. I don’t know.”

While complaints range on, Covington has unsurprisingly laughed off the notion that he’s undeserving and promised to bring the welterweight belt back to United States soil soon enough.

Please provide transcription credit with a link to this article if you use any of these quotes.





Source link