Colby Covington Confirms ‘Sour Relationship’ With UFC Head Hunter Campbell After Recent Tirade

Controversial UFC welterweight Colby Covington goes off on UFC head executive Hunter Campbell regarding his treatment in the promotion.

Colby Covington Confirms ‘Sour Relationship’ With UFC Head Hunter Campbell After Recent Tirade

Colby Covington calls out Hunter Campbell ( via MMA Mania)

In Short
  • Colby Covington has publicly criticized UFC executive Hunter Campbell over broken promises and a deteriorating relationship.
  • Covington's recent performance struggles have led to a drop in his ranking, now sitting at #14 in the welterweight division.
  • He has shifted his focus away from politics, stating he no longer wants to be involved in the political arena.

The UFC has faced growing scrutiny in recent months as fighters increasingly question its autonomy, reigniting debates over pay and control. Colby Covington had long supported the promotion throughout his career. However, that stance has shifted after setbacks and limited high-profile opportunities. The change became clear when he directed a heated rant at top UFC executive Hunter Campbell.

Covington last competed in December 2024, where he suffered a loss to Joaquin Buckley via doctor’s stoppage after a cut above his eye forced the bout to be halted. Prior to that, he fell short in his third undisputed title attempt against former champion Leon Edwards, losing by unanimous decision at UFC 296. Once a mainstay in the top 5, ‘Chaos’ currently holds the #14 spot in the UFC welterweight rankings.

It has been over a year since Covington last competed in the UFC, marking a notable lull for a once-prominent contender. His rise was driven by a seven-fight win streak, including an interim title victory over Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 225. However, his trajectory has shifted in recent years, and he has grown increasingly vocal against the promotion’s control over fighters’ careers, leading to his recent rant.

I think just the last couple of months, things kind of went sour. They were making some promises, but they weren’t fulfilling them. [Hunter] was stringing me along. I just don’t like how I’ve kind of been ghosted. It’s okay if that’s the way you’re going with your business, but I’m going to go with my business. I don’t want the UFC to tell me what I can and can’t do. Treat me like an independent contractor and don’t treat me like an employee.

Colby Covington via Helen Yee Sports

Covington was once a strong supporter of Campbell, often praising his role within the promotion on multiple occasions. However, his stance has gradually shifted, with ‘Chaos’ becoming increasingly critical of the UFC’s decisions in recent times. He recently pointed to lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan as an example, suggesting minor missteps can derail opportunities with little room for second chances.

Hunter Campbell serves as a key executive within the UFC, playing a central role in fighter negotiations and organizational operations. A trained attorney by profession, he has become one of the most influential figures behind the scenes in recent years. Campbell has also been widely viewed as a potential successor to UFC CEO Dana White, reflecting his growing importance within the promotion’s leadership.

Campbell has faced increased scrutiny in recent times, as he appears to have taken on greater responsibilities while White remains focused on his boxing venture. Amid this shift, Colby Covington has found himself increasingly at odds with UFC brass in recent months. Despite that, he has stayed active by competing under the RAF banner and is now set to face controversial influencer Dillon Danis at RAF 07.

Colby Covington reiterates his stance on becoming a political figure

Colby Covington was widely known as one of the most vocal supporters of Donald Trump, consistently aligning himself with the former president throughout his UFC career. He repeatedly defended Trump in public appearances and built much of his persona around that association, often referencing political narratives. Covington also actively campaigned for the US President and maintained close ties with the Trump family.

Colby Covington
Colby Covington (via MMA Fighting)

Despite his prolonged absence from the Octagon, ‘Chaos’ has remained active in the public eye and continued positioning himself for a major return. He expected the UFC to offer him a spot on a potential White House card, viewing it as a natural fit given his past associations. However, he currently has no confirmed matchups and was not considered for that event, which led to his recent remarks.

You know, I love Trump, he’s a great guy, but I’m not really political. In the future, you won’t see me campaigning or actively involved in politics. I don’t want to be a part of it anymore. It’s a dirty game, and loyalty is never rewarded. My dream before was to be the governor of Florida, a senator, a congressman. Now I just want to do business with Real American Beer, RAF, and mind my own business in peace.

Colby Covington via Bloody Elbow

In recent years, Colby Covington has openly expressed ambitions of transitioning into politics after his fighting career, drawing inspiration from Donald Trump. He spoke about following a similar path, using his public persona and political ties to build a future beyond MMA and remain in the spotlight. However, those plans now appear to have shifted following recent setbacks and changing priorities.

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