Colby Covington voices concern for Ben Askren’s health ahead of RAF 11 debut

Colby Covington has raised concerns about Ben Askren’s health ahead of his upcoming debut at RAF 11, citing the former UFC fighter’s history of severe medical complications. Askren, who retired from MMA in 2021, has faced multiple life-threatening health scares, including a reported five instances where he nearly died. Covington’s comments highlight the ongoing tension between the two fighters, even after their careers have diverged.

What happened?

Colby Covington took to social media to express his apprehension about Ben Askren’s well-being. Askren, known for his wrestling prowess and controversial UFC tenure, is set to make his debut in the regional promotion RAF 11. Covington’s remarks come amid Askren’s public discussions about his past health struggles, which included a near-fatal incident during a 2021 surgery. The UFC veteran’s comments suggest lingering animosity between the two, despite Askren’s transition to a new phase in his career.

Why it matters for Colby Covington

The rivalry between Colby Covington and Ben Askren dates back to their time in the UFC, where their feud was marked by heated exchanges and mutual disdain. Covington’s latest remarks underscore his continued interest in Askren’s career, even as Askren moves away from the mainstream MMA scene. For Covington, the comments serve as a reminder of his own standing in the UFC, where he remains a prominent figure in the welterweight division. The ongoing tension also keeps Covington in the public eye, reinforcing his persona as a provocative and outspoken athlete.

What comes next?

Ben Askren’s debut at RAF 11 is scheduled for later this year, though an exact date has not been confirmed. Covington’s comments add an extra layer of intrigue to the event, as fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how Askren performs and whether his health holds up. For Covington, the focus remains on his own UFC career, with potential title shots and high-profile matchups on the horizon. The back-and-forth between the two fighters, however, suggests that their rivalry is far from over, even if they are no longer active competitors in the same arena.