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Former US President Donald Trump has opened up about his dilemma over the feud between Jorge Masvidal and Colby Covington, two of his most vocal supporters in the UFC. Trump, who is a big fan of mixed martial arts, said he likes both fighters and hated to choose between them when they fought at UFC 272.
Masvidal and Covington used to be friends and training partners, but they had a bitter falling out and became enemies. They also had different styles and personalities, with Masvidal being a street fighter and Covington being a trash talker. Both of them, however, shared their admiration for Trump and often wore his merchandise and slogans.
“They had a fight with Colby, who I really like too, you know Colby, those two don’t like each other too,” Trump said on UFC Unfiltered. “Colby is a MAGA guy, he walks into the ring sometimes wearing a ‘Make America Great Again’ hat and he’s got a great fight coming up [with Leon Edwards]…
“I don’t love it [being asked to choose between Covington and Masvidal], I hate to give that kind of an answer too,” Trump continued. “I don’t like to do that but I’ve had a couple where because I know a lot of the fights, I’ve held a lot of fights for my own reasons I mean it brings people, it brings success, it brings money, it brings a lot of good things and it’s an interesting business.”
Trump was referring to the fact that he hosted several UFC events at his properties in the past, and also attended some of the biggest fights in person. He also had a close relationship with UFC president Dana White, who spoke at his rallies and defended him from critics.
The fight between Masvidal and Covington was one of the most anticipated bouts in UFC history, as it was a grudge match between two top welterweights. Covington dominated the fight with his wrestling and striking, and won by unanimous decision. Trump congratulated him after the fight, but also praised Masvidal for his toughness.
Masvidal announced his retirement shortly after the loss, saying that he had nothing left to prove in the sport. He ended his career with a record of 37-16, and was known for his exciting fights and knockouts. He also held the unofficial title of the “BMF” (Baddest Motherf*cker) after beating Nate Diaz in 2019.
Covington, on the other hand, is still chasing his dream of becoming the undisputed welterweight champion. He has lost twice to the current champion Kamaru Usman, but he is expected to get another shot at him after he faces Leon Edwards at UFC 295 in Madison Square Garden. It will be Covington’s third attempt to dethrone Usman, who is widely regarded as one of the best fighters in the world.
Trump said he is looking forward to seeing Covington fight Edwards, and hopes that he will finally win the belt. He also said he is still a fan of Masvidal, and wishes him well in his retirement.
“I’m looking forward to seeing Colby fight again,” Trump said. “He’s got a tough opponent [in Edwards], but he’s a tough guy. He’s got a lot of heart. And Jorge too, I mean Jorge is a great fighter. He’s had an amazing career. He’s done so much for the sport. I hope he enjoys his retirement.”
It is a tough spot for Donald Trump to be in as he considers both Jorge Masvidal and Colby Covington friends and has been supportive of both of them.