Colby Covington refuses to kick Conor McGregor while injured at UFC 329

Colby Covington draws line in the sand over Conor McGregor’s injury

Colby Covington drew a clear line in the sand at UFC 329 on 18 October 2025, saying he won’t kick Conor McGregor while the Irishman is injured.

What happened at UFC 329?

Conor McGregor pulled out of his scheduled welterweight bout on 18 October 2025 at UFC 329 in Las Vegas after suffering an undisclosed injury. The announcement came just hours before the main card began, leaving a gaping hole in the lineup. Covington, who was already on the card for a welterweight fight, took to social media to react to the news.

Why it matters for Colby Covington

Covington’s response wasn’t just a throwaway line. He singled out Dustin Poirier’s past criticism of McGregor, framing his own stance as more measured. “I’m not kicking a man when he’s down,” Covington posted. “That’s not who I am.” The comment underscores his own disciplined public persona compared to the more combative approach of rivals like Poirier.

The welterweight division remains stacked, and Covington’s refusal to pile on an injured opponent plays into his “business-first” reputation. With top contenders circling, his tone contrasts sharply with the trash-talking that often dominates the division.

What comes next for Covington?

Covington’s next fight hasn’t been officially booked, but he remains in the UFC’s top five at welterweight. The division’s next big target is a shot at Leon Edwards, the current champion. Covington’s camp has repeatedly pushed for that fight, arguing his resume deserves the opportunity.

For now, Covington’s focus stays on his own preparation. He’s avoided the kind of inflammatory remarks that often escalate rivalries, instead positioning himself as a calculated contender. Whether that approach pays off in the cage remains to be seen-but his words at UFC 329 showed exactly where he draws the line.