Colby Covington has been removed from the official UFC rankings due to his prolonged absence from competition. Covington's last fight was against Ian Machado Garry in 2024, where he suffered a stoppage loss. Since then, he has not competed in the octagon. Covington has remained active outside the cage, including ongoing legal proceedings with Jorge Masvidal and appearing at a RAF event. His removal from the rankings reflects the UFC's policy on fighter inactivity.
Colby Covington has been removed from the UFC's official welterweight rankings after an extended period without competing, the promotion confirmed as of April 2026.
Covington, 38, holds a professional record of 17-5 and built his reputation as one of the division's most relentless pressure fighters, averaging 3.81 significant strikes per minute and 3.64 takedowns per 15 minutes across his career. Known by his nickname "Chaos," the American wrestler out of MMA Masters last stepped into the octagon in 2024, suffering a stoppage defeat to Ian Machado Garry. That loss ended what had already been a lengthy stretch of reduced activity for the former interim welterweight champion, and he has not competed since.
Away from the cage, Covington has remained a public figure, appearing at a RAF event and continuing to navigate ongoing legal proceedings involving Jorge Masvidal.
Why it matters
- Covington's exit from the rankings opens a spot in an already competitive welterweight division and could affect how contenders are positioned ahead of future title picture bouts.
- At 38 years old with a 17-5 record, questions surround whether Covington can re-enter the rankings conversation should he return to action.
- His removal is a direct application of the UFC's standing policy on fighter inactivity, which applies regardless of a competitor's prior status or name recognition.
