Colby Covington talks "behind the scenes" interactions and a potential first title defense against Islam Makhachev

Colby Covington has his eyes set on a superfight with Islam Makhachev should 'Chaos' overcome Leon Edwards at UFC 296 in December.

Covington will be fighting for the first time this year when he takes on Edwards. The former interim welterweight champion last competed against Jorge Masvidal in March 2022.

Colby Covington was allegedly attacked by Masvidal several weeks after their clash at UFC 272, and a lengthy legal procedure soon followed.

Ahead of his return, Covington spoke to journalist James Lynch about his upcoming clash against Leon Edwards as well as potential future fights. Colby Covington stated that a potential fight with Islam Makhachev could be on the horizon should he defeat 'Rocky' at UFC 296.

"A lot of holes in [Makhachev's] game. He's talked a big game, trying to ride the coat-tails of Khabib's success and what he was able to accomplish. He's not Khabib. It's not the same thing... He keeps talking a big game over to Hunter Campbell, Dana White and the UFC, so there's no telling what's gonna happen. He's said some things behind the scenes, but let's see if he's actually a man of his word."

Watch the video below from 15:37:

Islam Makhachev is regarded as one of the biggest lightweights on the roster, and a potential move to 170 pounds would not be unlikely in the future. Colby Covington, on the other hand, fights at close to his natural weight and is one of the smaller welterweights in the top 15.

'Chaos' would certainly not have a size advantage over Makhachev, which could entice the lightweight champion to accept the American's challenge should both men win their next fights.

Covington will be taking on Leon Edwards later this year, while Makhachev will face off against Charles Oliveira at UFC 294 next month in a much-anticipated rematch.

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Colby Covington previews his title fight with Leon Edwards

Colby Covington is set to return to the sport against Leon Edwards in the main event of UFC 296 in December.

The matchup will see the classic 'grappler vs. striker' clash. Covington is known for his superb wrestling and endless energy, while Edwards is the more accomplished striker.

Both men are extremely well-rounded and should provide fans with much entertainment come fight night.

In the same interview with James Lynch, Covington spoke about his fight against Leon Edwards:

"It's a great matchup, I love fighting southpaws. There's a reason he's delaying this matchup, he knows it's the hardest stylistic fight for him... I don't think he can keep up with my well-roundedness. He's gonna be guessing the whole time." [6:05-6:33]