Colby Covington remains open to UFC return after wrestling stint

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 6:05 AM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

Colby Covington remains open to UFC return after wrestling stint
Summary

Colby Covington, the former UFC interim welterweight champion, announced his retirement from MMA on May 19. He is now focused on wrestling, recently securing wins in the Real American Freestyle organization. Covington has not ruled out a return to MMA, stating it would only be with the UFC, expressing gratitude for the promotion and affirming his contract status. Covington is scheduled to headline RAF 11 on July 18 against Arman Tsarukyan.

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Status Watch
  • Covington retired from MMA on May 19 to focus on wrestling.
  • He has won three matches in the Real American Freestyle organization.
  • Covington will headline RAF 11 on July 18 against Arman Tsarukyan.
  • He confirmed he will only consider an MMA return with the UFC.
  • Covington remains under contract with the UFC.
Latest Updates
  • 6:05 AMYahoo SportsColby Covington hasn't ruled out MMA return but only in the UFC
What they're saying
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Former UFC interim welterweight champion Colby Covington announced his retirement from mixed martial arts on May 19, informing the fight promotion of his intentions to focus on wrestling instead. Covington inked a deal with Real American Freestyle and debuted in the wrestling organization in ...

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