Colby Covington secured a hard-fought 5-3 victory over Arman Tsarukyan at RAF 11, delivering Tsarukyan his inaugural loss on the RAF mat. The wrestling card featured round-by-round updates for the highly anticipated main event, which culminated in dramatic fashion both on and off the mat.
The conclusion of the final match of the night was immediately followed by wild post-match scenes during the RAF 11 press conference. Pure pandemonium took place, with Belal Muhammad seen throwing a kick toward Colby Covington as they were both on stage.
Victory on the Mat
As the wrestlers were about to begin, the anticipation for Arman Tsarukyan versus Colby Covington was palpable. Covington started strongly, accumulating points to establish a 3-0 lead. During the early exchanges, Tsarukyan was put on the shot clock, and Covington capitalised by getting one point on the board from Tsarukyan’s failure to score.
Despite Covington potentially being the bigger man, Tsarukyan displayed noticeable strength and good defence. Tsarukyan also attempted an outside single leg, but Covington’s momentum carried him through, contributing to Covington’s points tally.
The match was described as a good scrap and fun wrestling, befitting a main event. Tsarukyan scored points, and at one stage could have gotten four but had to settle for two. He attempted to work towards a gut wrench, but Colby spun well and got himself into a position to score, although Tsarukyan ultimately returned to his feet.
The Decisive Moments
Covington secured two late points in the second period, replicating a similar feat from the first period, which extended his lead to 5-2. In the closing moments of the match, Covington controlled the centre of the mat while Arman went for the underhook.
With only 30 seconds left, Covington had to defend rigorously and get his hips down to seal the win. Colby successfully defended, securing the 5-3 victory against Tsarukyan.
Post-Match Pandemonium and Covington’s Statements
Amidst the chaotic post-match press conference, Colby Covington was heard saying, somewhere off camera, “The champ does what the champ wants.” Following his victory, Covington offered praise for his opponent, stating, “Arman will be UFC lightweight champ, I’m sure of it.”
Covington further commented on the significance of his performance, remarking, “Tonight was for America. For Hulkster.” He also reflected on Tsarukyan’s skills, saying, “I was super impressed with [Tsarukyan’s] tie-ups, faints, that’s a tough guy I took down to get this belt.”
Calls for Future Bouts
Looking ahead, Covington issued a clear challenge to other prominent fighters. He declared, “Now, anybody can get it. [Khamzat] Chimaev, Belal [Muhammad], [Tyron] Woodley.”
The event concluded with Covington’s victory over Tsarukyan, cementing the outcome of the RAF 11 main event.