This was announced at a press conference in London by UFC President Dana White.
“I don’t know when we will do it, but this is a fight that makes sense,” the head of the organization told reporters after the UFC 286 tournament. “Colby came here, did a weight race, and did everything to participate in this fight. He deserves this fight. Not to mention that he is still the second or third number in the world. So yes, Leon vs Colby is the next fight.”
At the same time, Covington wants the title fight to take place on July 8 at UFC 290 in Las Vegas.
“I didn’t see anything special,” the American told reporters after the event. “There is home refereeing, plus Leon is very good when he fights orthodox guys. Styles makes fights and I’m going to finish him off at home in America for International Fight Week in July. Let’s do that!”
Recall that the welterweight title fight between Leon Edwards and Kamaru Usman, who led the British numbered event, went all the way and ended with the victory of the reigning champion by a majority of judges’ votes.