On June 18, 2016, Colby Covington achieved a memorable moment in his UFC career by delivering his only official knockdown in the promotion. During UFC Ottawa, the American welterweight showcased an unexpected striking highlight when he stunned Canadian fighter Jonathan Meunier with a powerful spinning backfist. This event marked a key comeback for Covington after experiencing the first loss of his professional UFC journey and highlighted a rare striking display for a fighter more known for his grappling skills.
Covington’s Career Struggles Leading Up to the Knockdown Moment
Before this notable victory, Covington had faced challenges early in his UFC tenure. In 2015, he suffered a quick submission loss to Warlley Alves in under 90 seconds, a setback that cast some doubt on his rising trajectory. Alves himself struggled following that fight, losing eight of his next twelve UFC bouts before his release in early 2024. Following this defeat, Covington needed a significant statement to assure fans and critics of his competitive legitimacy in the welterweight division.
The Fight Against Jonathan Meunier Revealed a Rare Highlight in Covington’s Skillset
At UFC Ottawa, Covington—often criticized for relying heavily on wrestling—demonstrated a striking maneuver not typically associated with his style. Seconds into the third round, Covington’s spinning backfist floored Meunier, producing the only knockdown in the American’s 11-year UFC career. He then quickly capitalized on this opening by securing Meunier’s back and applying a rear-naked choke, which forced Meunier to tap out, giving Covington a submission victory and restoring momentum in his career.
Recent Struggles and the Uncertainty About Covington’s Future in the UFC
While the win over Meunier was a high point, Covington’s recent record reveals ongoing difficulties. Since that submission win, he has not recorded another finish, despite competing in 12 subsequent bouts. Moreover, moving into championship contention has proven tough, with Covington suffering three title fight losses. Two of these defeats came at the hands of Kamaru Usman, and a less impressive loss followed against Leon Edwards.
Most recently, he experienced a harsh stoppage in December 2023 against Joaquin Buckley in Tampa, where the fight was halted after Buckley inflicted considerable damage. At 37 years old, Covington’s next steps remain uncertain as he aims to demonstrate he can still contend at the division’s highest levels despite these recent setbacks.
Significance of the Spinning Backfist in Covington’s Legacy
This singular spinning backfist knockdown remains a rare and striking moment in Colby Covington’s UFC story, standing out amid a career defined largely by wrestling prowess and grappling control rather than striking highlights. As Covington continues to navigate the challenges of a competitive welterweight division, this moment serves as a reminder of his ability to surprise opponents and fans alike. Whether he can recapture similar moments of dominance will be critical in determining his lasting impact and future within the UFC ranks.