Former interim welterweight champion Colby Covington may soon step into the Octagon with a promising new challenger, Gabriel Bonfim. Following Bonfim’s recent victory over Stephen Thompson at UFC Nashville, which propelled him to the 13th spot in the welterweight rankings, discussions have begun around a potential matchup, sparking interest among fans and analysts alike. This opportunity represents a critical moment for both fighters, particularly Covington, who is seeking to bounce back from a two-fight losing streak.
Gabriel Bonfim has expressed his interest in facing Covington, describing it as the logical next challenge in his career. With an MMA record of 18 wins and just one loss, Bonfim believes that taking on a former champion would advance his standing within the UFC and satisfy fans eager for this contest. Speaking to MMA Junkie, he stated,
I’d like to fight Colby Covington. A fight against a former champion is an appropriate next step in my career after defeating Thompson, who also has a very impressive resume. That’s a great matchup for me, and I believe it makes the most sense for my career. Most importantly, I’ve heard from a lot of fans, online and in person, who say that’s the fight they want to see next, so let’s do it.
—Gabriel Bonfim, Welterweight Contender
If this fight is confirmed, Bonfim will be looking to make a strong impression in only his seventh UFC appearance by taking down a bigger name in Covington, also known as “Chaos.” For Covington, the opportunity to redeem himself and halt his recent losing streak against a rising contender would be significant.
Sean O’Malley Remains Hopeful for Another Bout With Merab Dvalishvili
In the bantamweight division, despite suffering two clear defeats at the hands of champion Merab Dvalishvili, Sean O’Malley refuses to abandon hope for a third fight. O’Malley has been openly confident about his chances to finally prevail against Dvalishvili, citing improvements in his grappling and wrestling defenses ahead of their UFC 316 rematch.
O’Malley shared his mindset candidly on his YouTube channel:
I truly believed that I was gonna go out there and make Merab look stupid. I’m still so delusional that I still believe I can do that.
—Sean O’Malley, Bantamweight Fighter
He draws parallels to the trilogy between Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway, where despite losing the first two battles, Holloway managed to claim victory in their final fight. O’Malley said,
Max Holloway beat Dustin Poirier in their third fight, lost first two. So, never say never.
—Sean O’Malley, Bantamweight Fighter
Though currently doubted by many, Sean O’Malley’s conviction keeps the possibility of a trilogy fight alive, which holds significant intrigue for the bantamweight division.
Gilbert Burns Plans Return Against Daniel Rodriguez, Eyes December Comeback
In the welterweight ranks, Gilbert Burns aims to resume competition after a difficult stretch marked by four consecutive losses. Following a first-round knockout against Michael Moraes, Burns revealed that a concussion has delayed his comeback plans, but he remains hopeful for a December return.
Speaking to MMA Junkie, Burns explained,
Looking forward for December. I had a little concussion, and still not able to come back. So, still gotta get a couple more things on the protocol to get able to be back to training. Still, like, taking easy a little bit. It was a harder one. But yeah, looking forward for December.
—Gilbert Burns, Welterweight Fighter
Burns is targeting a matchup with fellow welterweight Daniel Rodriguez, a newer entrant into the rankings, following Rodriguez’s win over Kevin Holland. Burns added,
I just saw Daniel Rodriguez just got a nice win against Kevin Holland. He’s ranking now. I think that should be a fun one, me and Daniel Rodriguez, December, maybe January. Let’s see how the concussion protocol goes. But that’s the one that I’m looking forward to.
—Gilbert Burns, Welterweight Fighter
This upcoming contest could provide a crucial test for both fighters as they seek to climb the rankings and reestablish themselves in a competitive welterweight division.
Implications for the UFC Welterweight Division and What’s Next
The potential fight between Colby Covington and Gabriel Bonfim carries high stakes for both men. For Covington, it might be a moment to reclaim his status following challenging setbacks, while Bonfim’s rise offers fresh energy to the division. The fight would also satisfy fan interest, as Bonfim noted the public call for this matchup.
Meanwhile, Sean O’Malley’s persistent confidence in securing a third fight with Merab Dvalishvili suggests continued tension in the bantamweight ranks and the potential for another hard-fought matchup. O’Malley’s refusal to back down despite two losses fuels anticipation around a possible trilogy.
Gilbert Burns’ planned return after a forced injury break adds an additional layer of complexity in the welterweight category, as he sets his sights on Daniel Rodriguez. The outcome of these matchups stands to significantly influence the future rankings and title picture in the UFC.
As the UFC schedules and negotiations unfold, fans can expect intense matchups filled with high emotions and career-defining moments. Both established fighters and rising stars are poised to shape the landscape of the divisions they compete in, setting the stage for compelling fights in the coming months.