UFC welterweight Colby Covington became a household name with his wholehearted adoption of a villainous heel persona. However, Gilbert Burns, who called Covington out at UFC 283, revealed that Covington frequently acts out of character when interacting with his fellow fighters, discussing a surprisingly respectful, positive interaction with Covington at the post-fight press-conference.
“I looked at him. I [nodded] my head and he said, ‘Come here.’ I said, ‘Oh sh*t. It’s on.’ I walked to win and … I was ready.
What Happened When Gilbert Burns Met Colby Covington
I said, ‘What’s up?’ He said, ‘Yo, I’m a huge fan, brother.’ He was super cool. I’m pretty honest right now. I don’t have to lie. He was super cool. ‘Yo, I’m a huge fan. I’m a character. I just want to make money. I appreciate you. You have a beautiful family.’ He was super cool. It was even getting weird because he was (going) for over two minutes, ‘Bro, I like what you did your last fight.’ I’m like, ‘Man, look at this guy.’”
Whether or not the two like one another is irrelevant for Burns. He wants to return to title contention as soon as possible, and Colby Covington is in the way.
“I have nothing against Colby. I respect what he does. I don’t agree. You do whatever you want with that, helping you make a living or do whatever you want. But I want to become a champion. I believe I will become a champion. He’s the guy holding onto that position. Or he says yes to that ‘TUF,’ or March is going to be one year since he fought Masvidal.
Kick that guy out of the rankings – out. Give me my position back. Belal beat Sean Brady. Before that, I don’t even know who he beat. Why’s he passing me? Come on. You guys that do the rankings, this guy is ducking me and doesn’t want to fight. Colby has to say yes, or take this guy out of the rankings.”
Burns has struggled to lock down an opponent for months, but hopes to stay active in 2023. Colby Covington defeated Jorge Masvidal back in January last year, but following an assault at Masvidal’s hands at a Miami steakhouse, has stayed away from competition. It’s not clear when either Masvidal or Covington will return to the Octagon, but either could signify a massive fight for Gilbert Burns.
Do you think Burns vs Covington is the fight to make? Let us know in the comments.
