Colby Covington Believes He’s Still UFC Champion Material, Sees Belal Muhammad As Perfect Opponent

Colby Covington and Belal Muhammad

Since 2019, Colby Covington, once a UFC superstar, has seen a significant dip in his career. Stats tell the story, and his numbers suggest he’s facing the toughest stretch of his career. But like any fighter, Covington isn’t backing down—he still believes he has champion potential. Despite losing his chance at the belt multiple times, he views Belal Muhammad as the perfect opponent and remains confident in his path to UFC glory.

For Covington, this is just another chapter in his fight for the title. During his recent stream, Covington says he believes he is still in his prime, pointing out that Daniel Cormier became a champion at 41 while he’s only 36. Confident in his skills, ‘Chaos’ sees a fight with Belal Muhammad as a solid matchup, claiming Muhammad won’t be able to take him down.

However, since 2019, Covington has struggled, losing 4 of his last 6 fights, including bouts with Kamaru Usman and Leon Edwards. Despite these setbacks, he still views himself as a potential UFC champion and is ready to shock the world. “DC was a champion at 41. I’m only 36 years young… I can easily beat [Belal]. That’s a good matchup. He’s not gonna take me down,” he said.

It now seems unlikely that the American fighter will get another title shot anytime soon. Over the years, he’s fought just once per year, and his performances have steadily dipped. To get back in title contention, he needs a turnaround similar to that of Renato Moicano.

Covington will likely need at least three big wins to even be considered a serious title contender again, as his recent record and limited activity haven’t helped his case for another shot at the belt.

Michael Bisping Doesn’t See Colby Covington Becoming A Middleweight Champ

Covington has recently called out former middleweight champion Sean Strickland, but Bisping isn’t on board with the idea. As a former middleweight champion, the ex-British champ knows what it takes to succeed in that division and feels Covington isn’t ready for that challenge.

Bisping also pointed out that with Covington returning after a long break, Dana White is unlikely to give him an immediate high-profile fight, especially considering his inconsistent performances and limited activity in recent years. He said, “Colby Covington vs. Sean Strickland, first of all, Colby’s too small, simple as that. Covington, I don’t think he’s going to be fighting Sean Strickland anytime soon.”

The former title challenger clearly wants to chase UFC glory again, whether it’s in the welterweight or middleweight division. He’s driven by the desire for a title, but the real question is whether he can make it happen. Only time will show if he can bounce back and reclaim his place at the top.