Tonight's showdown with Joaquin Buckley is an incredibly important fight for Colby Covington, who knows a dominant victory could see him regain the welterweight title in 2025.
In an effort to leave no stone unturned, the former interim champion has enlisted the help of friend and mentor Chael Sonnen – who was keen to tease that they have some surprises in store for 'New Mansa'.
Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC
Chael Sonnen and Colby Covington offer 'inside scoop' on UFC Tampa
Returning from a twelve-month layoff, Colby Covington not only has a new gym to look at, but he also has a new head coach in the form of UFC legend Chael Sonnen.
“I wanted to be with Colby from the beginning,” The Bad Guy acknowledged via ESPN MMA: “When he finally called to say, 'I've got a spot for you,' I thought, 'It's about time.' ”
While Covington may be the moderate underdog to Joaquin Buckley, the threat of elimination could present an opportunity to score a shocking knockout for the former interim champion.
“I like that you use that word [threat] like we talked about in camp, about the threat of wrestling,” Sonnen said, before giving an “inside scoop” on one of the camp's key themes.
“A lot of camp had to do with the hands and Buckley is one of those guys where he gives you openings. He has to crowd you, and he doesn't do a very good job as a backup.
“We feel like he's exposing himself [on the feet] So there are a few things we're looking for, but honestly we're looking for tricks on the feet more than on the ground – there's a little scoop for you.
Covington was also keen to celebrate the vast experience Sonnen brings to his new team, before teasing that they have a game plan that could “surprise” one or two MMA fans.
“We have a whole new team around me, and it's all about this guy here, he's the head coach, he's the boss and whatever he says goes… We don't forget where we come from, our roots are in wrestling in Oregon.
“We are going to surprise people; people are sleeping off the strike, but with that element of being able to set up fake takedowns and come up with big strikes – I know we can put out the lights on this man… Tune in tomorrow night because we have something special in store.”
Watch Chael Sonnen Cut a Promo for 'Chaos'
Chael Sonnen is not only one of the best wrestlers in UFC history, but he is also one of the sport's most prolific hype men and trash talkers.
After Covington and Buckley completed the ceremonial weigh-in, Sonnen would cut another great promo for his student.
UFC Fight Night: Covington vs Buckley airs live from Tampa, Florida on December 14.
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