Dana White defends Decision To Give Colby Covington Title Shot, Says It Was A No-Brainer

Photo: Instagram/Dana White 

Dana White has defended his decision to announce Colby Covington as the next contender for Leon Edwards' welterweight title shortly after UFC 286, stating that it was a "no-brainer" due to Covington's past achievements and his willingness to step in and fight.

Despite Edwards' back-to-back victories over former UFC champion Kamaru Usman, White stated that the UFC would still have given Covington the next title shot if Usman had won.

He added that Covington deserved the title shot, citing his past injuries and recent activity, despite criticism from some who point to his lack of wins over current welterweight contenders.

Photo: Instagram/Dana White 

White also dismissed the idea that Gilbert Burns and Jorge Masvidal's upcoming fight should have been considered before making a decision, and he bristled at the suggestion that Belal Muhammad deserved the title shot more than Covington, stating that the UFC had plans for Muhammad, including a potential fight against rising prospect Shavkat Rakhmonov.

Edwards and his team have been vocal critics of the UFC's decision to give Covington the title shot, with Edwards stating that he does not intend to allow Covington to be the next man in line.

In response, White made it clear that the UFC's decision had been made and defended Covington's right to the title shot.

He also acknowledged that as the champion, Edwards will face tough challenges from all the top fighters in his division, including Covington, who will be next in line.

Read Next: Shaquille O'Neal Inspires With Remarkable Return To Gym Just Days After Hip Surgery

Source: SB Nation