Former UFC title challenger Colby Covington has accused Nigerian fighter Kamaru Usman of cheating in their past fights. Covington made the claims during a Twitch stream while responding to fan questions about his least-liked opponent.
“Definitely ‘Marty Juiceman’ (Usman). Just because he’s a cheater and he’s a coward. He definitely cheated multiple times in our fights so I just can’t respect someone that cheats in a fight,” Covington stated.
The 36-year-old American has fought Usman twice, losing both bouts. Their first encounter at UFC 245 in December 2019 ended with Usman retaining his welterweight title via TKO, while the rematch at UFC 268 in November 2021 saw Usman win by decision.
Currently on a three-fight losing streak, Usman has not responded to Covington’s accusations. The former champion, who last competed in October 2023, declined a recent fight offer against undefeated Shavkat Rakhmonov, citing the date as “too early” for his return.
Despite his recent setbacks, Usman’s career record remains impressive, with 20 wins and 4 losses, including 15 victories in the UFC. However, his recent losses include two defeats to Leon Edwards, one of which cost him his title at UFC 278.
Covington, meanwhile, is set to face Joaquin Buckley in the main event of UFC Tampa this Saturday.
