Colby Covington talks UFC Tampa loss, Sean O'Malley wants to fight in Japan, Oleksandr Usyk's manager provides update on his future: MMA News Roundup

Colby Covington predicts outcome of UFC Tampa bout, Sean O'Malley discusses potentially competing in Japan, and Oleksandr Usyk's manager provides an update on the Ukranian's future.

Find out more details in today's (Jan. 1) Sportskeeda daily news roundup.

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#3. Colby Covington predicts outcome of Joaquin Buckley fight at UFC Tampa if "DEI doctor" didn't stop the fight

Colby Covington recently opened up about his TKO defeat to Joaquin Buckley last month, stating that he believes he would have won the fight if the doctor didn't put a stop to it.

Covington faced Buckley in the main event of UFC Tampa, hoping to bounce back from a loss to Leon Edwards. 'Chaos' was never able to get going, however, as Buckley was able to nullify his wrestling and outstrike him, eventually causing a nasty cut above the eye of Covington.

The cut was so bad in fact, that just a round later, the cageside doctor stepped in and called the fight, handing Buckley the TKO victory.

Despite being behind on all the scorecards before the stoppage, Covington is confident he would have turned it around against 'New Mansa'. Speaking in the latest video on his YouTube channel, the 36-year-old said:

"Everyone knows I’m a fourth- and fifth-round fighter, I’m just getting started getting into those championship rounds. I could’ve finished him in that fourth and fifth round, he was breathing heavy. He didn’t have much more to offer."

Catch Covington's comments here:

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#2. Sean O'Malley discusses potentially competing in Japan under UFC banner

Sean O'Malley has revealed that he'd love to fight under the UFC banner in Japan after he attended the recent RIZIN 49 event.

'Suga' was cageside for the night of action and was later asked for his thoughts on the event during a backstage interview. After experiencing a new production in front of a different set of fans, he'd love to headline an event Japan if ever given the opportunity.

He said:

"Right now, obviously I'm with the UFC. I plan to be with the UFC forever, so if the UFC comes here one day, I would love to fight in this arena. There's a good energy here...The production of the show was incredible, the energy in the arena was incredible, the ring girls are incredible...This has been the most fun trip I've ever been on and I would love to come back."

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#1. Oleksandr Usyk's manager provides update on heavyweight champion's future

Oleksandr Usyk's manager recently shed some light on the undefeated Ukranian's future, revealing his next fight won't be until he's had a long period of rest and recovery.

Usyk capped off 2024 with another historic win after he defeated Tyson Fury for a second time last month. After previously edging past 'The Gypsy King' via split decision back in May, 'The Cat' left no doubt as he comfortably beat Fury across all three judges' scorecards to retain his undisputed status.

Following his win, speculation soon began circling over what's the next step for the Ukrainian. His manager, Egis Klimas, has now provided an update.

During a recent interview with Boxing Scene, Klimas said:

"It’ll be a very long preparation. After another 12 rounds with Fury, he needs a good, long recovery."