Colby Covington accuses UFC of ‘freezing out’ fighters over fight refusals
Former interim champion claims athletes are pressured into accepting unwanted bouts Colby Covington has publicly criticised the UFC, accusing the promotion of sidelining fighters who refuse to accept the matchups offered to them. The 38-year-old has not competed since December 2024 and was recently left off the upcoming White House event, further fuelling his frustration with how the promotion handles their fighter negotiations.
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC Former interim champion claims athletes are pressured into accepting unwanted bouts Colby Covington has publicly criticised the UFC, accusing the promotion of sidelining fighters who refuse to accept the matchups offered to them. The 38-year-old has not competed since December 2024 and was recently left off the upcoming White House event, further fuelling his frustration with how the promotion handles their fighter negotiations. Covington claims fighters are forced into tough choices Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC Speaking during a livestream, Covington alleged that fighters have little control over their careers once the UFC presents an offer.
“You have no say,” he said. “They tell you the direction, and it’s take it or leave it — you don’t really get a choice. ” According to Covington, refusing a fight can lead to significant consequences.
“They just ice you. They won’t give you fights, they’ll let you sit out. They’ll say, ‘You turned this down, now you’re not fighting and not making money.
’” He added that fighters often feel compelled to accept unfavourable terms. “Even if it’s not the right move or you’re not getting paid what you deserve, it doesn’t matter. You either accept it and be a company guy, or you don’t get opportunities.