Covington Calls Out Chimaev And Usman After RAF Win

Colby Covington has two RAF opponents in mind following his dominant 10-0 sweep of former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad.

Covington, who defeated Arman Tsarukyan 5-3 in July before blanking Muhammad at RAF 13, told media members he wants grudge matches with Khamzat Chimaev and Kamaru Usman on the wrestling mats. The callouts came during the post-event press conference, according to MMA Junkie.

Covington Prioritizes Usman Trilogy, Eyes Chimaev Clash

"It's a long list of guys, and thankfully RAF has so much good talent to challenge and test myself," Covington said. He named Usman as his top target, calling a potential trilogy "a huge matchup" and claiming they have "unfinished business." Chimaev also made Covington's shortlist, though the former title challenger attached conditions. "We have to get on a weight plan. He can't keep being unprofessional and missing weight or retiring again to the common cold," he said.

Chimaev recently indicated RAF already has plans for a Covington bout, though no confirmation has emerged. The two have exchanged barbs for years, setting up a natural storyline if the match materializes.

Usman holds two UFC wins over Covington, breaking his jaw via fifth-round TKO in their first meeting before taking a decision in the rematch. Whether fans want to see a third chapter on the wrestling mat instead of in the cage remains an open question.

RAF has not announced Covington's next opponent. The promotion's next event is expected later this fall.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Colby Covington targets RAF matches with Khamzat Chimaev and Kamaru Usman after sweeping Belal Muhammad