Colby Covington Retires From UFC, And Here's Why

InnovationGamingColby Covington Retires From UFC, And Here's WhyByBrian Mazique,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Brian Mazique has covered combat sports and video games since 2011.Follow AuthorMay 19, 2026, 12:32am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 16: Colby Covington of the United States looks on prior to a welterweight title fight against Leon Edwards of England during the UFC 296: Edwards vs. Covington event at T-Mobile Arena on December 16, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)Getty ImagesColby Covington has decided to retire from the sport of mixed martial arts and the UFC has removed him from the active roster. There are a few reasons for Covington's retirement, but a recent snub from the UFC Freedom 250 card appears to be the primary reason.Key Facts at a GlanceFighter: Colby "Chaos" CovingtonAge: 38UFC Octagon Record: 12-5 across 17 appearancesOverall Pro MMA Record: 17-5Last UFC Win: Jorge Masvidal, March 2022Last UFC Appearance: TKO loss to Joaquin Buckley at UFC Tampa, December 14, 2024Career Peak: Interim welterweight champion, 2018Next Booking: Chris Weidman, Real American Freestyle, May 30, 2026Why Did Colby Covington Retire From the UFC?It's no secret; Covington wanted to fight on the Freedom 250 card. He's an outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump, and fighting on the card would have been an honor for the 38-year-old. That said, he is 38 years old. Covington hasn't won a fight in four years and in his most recent defeats, he's looked like a shadow of the cardio and wrestling machine that saw him become the interim champion at 170 pounds in 2018.MORE FOR YOUThe UFC had already removed Covington from its official welterweight rankings in April, a clear signal that the promotion's plans no longer included him. T...