Colby Covington mocks Belal Muhammad’s looks after fatherhood announcement

Colby Covington didn’t let Belal Muhammad’s fatherhood announcement slide without a response. At the RAF 11 press conference on 17 Jul 2026, Covington mocked Muhammad’s appearance with a stream of personal insults, turning a personal milestone into another chance to trash talk his rival.

Covington questioned Muhammad’s looks in front of reporters.

During the presser, Covington asked Muhammad: “Who the f*ck let you hit? Bro, you’re one of the ugliest motherf*ckers I’ve seen in my life. That girl must look like a gargoyle. Disgusting.”

The insults landed just days after Muhammad shared the news of his upcoming fatherhood. Fans and fellow fighters flooded Muhammad with congratulations, but Covington used the moment to double down on their years-long feud.

What’s behind the feud?

Covington and Muhammad have traded barbs for years without ever stepping inside the cage. Their rivalry runs on repeated callouts, with Muhammad accusing Covington of dodging a fight while Covington dismisses Muhammad as an unexciting opponent.

Muhammad has long pushed for a matchup with Covington, but Covington has repeatedly brushed him off. The insults over Muhammad’s looks add another layer to their personal war outside the octagon.

Covington’s other comments at the press conference

Covington also defended Conor McGregor after his UFC 329 loss. Speaking to MMA Fighting ahead of RAF 11, Covington refused to criticize McGregor after the Irishman’s comeback ended in 69 seconds due to a knee injury.

“McGregor’s still a first-ballot Hall of Famer and the biggest star the sport’s ever seen,” Covington said. “I’m not going to kick him while he’s down. I’m not going to be like that fraud Dustin Poirier.”

Covington praised McGregor for boosting the UFC’s economy and bringing excitement to fight nights, framing the Irishman as a net positive for the sport despite his recent setback.

What’s next for both fighters?

RAF 11 will headline with a crossover wrestling match between Covington and UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan. The co-main event features Muhammad facing Ben Askren, who returns after a life-threatening illness and a double lung transplant.

Covington’s trash talk keeps the heat on Muhammad ahead of any potential showdown. For now, the feud stays alive outside the cage, with both fighters set to focus on their upcoming bouts while their rivalry rages on.