Colby Covington continues to criticize Jon Jones, accusing him of avoiding tougher opponents like Tom Aspinall and labeling him a coward and a cheat.
Colby Covington’s opinion of Jon Jones hasn’t improved, even after Jones’ recent victory over Stipe Miocic. The two were once college roommates but have been at odds for years.
As wrestling teammates at Central Iowa Community College, their relationship soured over time. Now, Covington is vocal about his disdain for Jones, especially regarding his status in the heavyweight division.
Covington accuses Jones of dodging the toughest challenges. He criticizes Jones for choosing to fight Miocic, who was coming off a loss and a lengthy layoff, instead of facing interim champ Tom Aspinall.
“Jon needs to stop ducking Tom Aspinall like he did [Francis] Ngannou,” Covington said at UFC Tampa media day. “He avoided Ngannou for years; now it’s Aspinall.”
Covington claims Jones avoids fights where he risks getting beaten. “I don’t see anything special in Jon Jones,” he added.
Covington isn’t alone in these accusations. Many criticize Jones for showing no interest in fighting Aspinall next, preferring to challenge UFC light heavyweight champ Alex Pereira.
UFC CEO Dana White insists that if Jones fights again, it should be against Aspinall to unify the heavyweight title. Yet, the 37-year-old champ remains elusive about future plans.
Covington is convinced Jones prefers an easier matchup with Miocic, whom he defeated in three rounds last November.
“Yeah, he beat Stipe,” Covington acknowledged. “Respect to Stipe—he’s a first responder and a community hero. But let’s be honest, he’s past his prime.”
Covington believes Miocic was just there for a paycheck and that his performance wasn’t noteworthy.
Professionally and personally, Covington holds little regard for Jones, and it seems unlikely this will change soon.
“Jon Jones is a f*cking disgrace,” Covington declared. “He’s a f*cking joke.”
“Nothing special about Jon Jones,” he continued. “He’s a coward and a cheat.”