The animosity between Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal stands as one of the most personal, bitter feuds in modern mixed martial arts history. What began as a close friendship and training partnership at American Top Team devolved into a public feud, a high-profile pay-per-view clash at UFC 272, and an ensuing street altercation outside a Miami restaurant.
Understanding this rivalry requires looking past the promotional hype. The bad blood combined deep personal insults, high-stakes athletic competition inside the Octagon, and real-world legal fallout that permanently altered both fighters' careers.
From Roommates to Bitter Rivals
Years before they headlined a pay-per-view event, Covington and Masvidal shared an apartment and trained together as rising prospects in Florida. They were close allies, often cornering each other and helping one another navigate the early tiers of the sport.
As both athletes climbed the welterweight rankings, tensions mounted. Their eventual split wasn't just professional; it was personal. When Covington adopted his outspoken, antagonistic heel persona, it alienated many of his former teammates, including Masvidal. The narrative shifted from friendly training partners to bitter enemies, fueled by competing claims over gym loyalties, coaching staff, and personal respect.
Public interviews grew increasingly hostile. Cross-talk on media row set the stage for an inevitable collision, but the promotion took years to materialize the matchup because both fighters pursued championship paths concurrently.
The Octagon Settlement at UFC 272
When the UFC finally booked Covington against Masvidal as the main event of UFC 272 in March 2022, the stakes were entirely personal. Neither man held a championship belt at the time, yet the fight generated massive pay-per-view interest based purely on their toxic history.
Inside the cage, Covington's relentless wrestling pace and high-volume output dictated the contest.
- Covington secured multiple takedowns and maintained top pressure across five rounds.
- Masvidal relied on explosive boxing combinations and moments of sharp striking, but struggled to deter Covington's relentless chain wrestling.
- Ultimately, the judges awarded Covington a unanimous decision victory after 25 minutes of grueling action.
Rather than ending the feud, the decisive loss inside the Octagon intensified the external friction.
The Miami Street Altercation and Legal Aftermath
Just weeks after their bout concluded, the conflict spilled out of the athletic arena and into the streets of Miami Beach. Masvidal confronted Covington outside a local steakhouse, resulting in a physical altercation that drew immediate police involvement.
- The Incident: Masvidal reportedly approached Covington outside Papi Steak, leading to a sudden confrontation where Covington sustained minor injuries and property damage, including a damaged watch.
- Criminal Charges: Police arrested Masvidal, leading to felony battery and criminal mischief charges.
- Civil Litigation: Covington pursued civil action against Masvidal, seeking damages for medical expenses and alleged injuries, keeping the legal entanglement alive long after the dust settled.
This incident highlighted the risks when fight promotion crosses personal boundaries, proving that verbal barbs regarding family and personal life carry heavy real-world consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Were Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal actually friends?
Yes. Early in their careers, they trained together at American Top Team in Florida, lived together, and acted as close corncorners and mentors for one another before a falling out over gym politics and personal differences.
Who won the UFC fight between Covington and Masvidal?
Colby Covington won their bout at UFC 272 via a unanimous decision after dominating large portions of the fight with his wrestling and cardio.
Did Masvidal face legal consequences for the street incident?
Yes. Following the altercation outside a Miami restaurant, Masvidal faced criminal felony charges and subsequent civil litigation filed by Covington regarding damages and injuries.
Will they ever fight again?
As of current athletic standings and retirement announcements from Masvidal, a athletic rematch remains unlikely, though their rivalry continues to be referenced as one of the most bitter personal feuds in UFC history.
