Early Life and Education of Colby Covington: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 29, 2026

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Colby Covington. From birth to education, explore key events.

Colby Covington is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the UFC's Welterweight division. He is a former Interim UFC Welterweight Champion. As of March 2026, he is ranked #14 in the UFC welterweight rankings. Known for his wrestling background and cardio, Covington is also a controversial figure due to his outspoken persona and promotion tactics.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

February 22, 1988: Colby Covington's Birth

On February 22, 1988, Colby Ray Covington was born. He is an American professional mixed martial artist.

Others born on this day/year

2006: State Championship Win

In 2006, as a senior wrestler at Thurston High School, Colby Covington won the 171 lb state championship.

August 10, 2007: Arrest for DUI

On August 10, 2007, Covington was arrested for eluding police and driving under the influence, with a BAC of 0.255, more than three times the legal limit.

2007: National Junior College Wrestling Title

In 2007, while at Iowa Central Community College, Covington won the 165 lb national junior college wrestling title as a true freshman with a 34-0 record. Jon Jones was his roommate at the time.

May 23, 2010: Fourth-Degree Assault Allegation

On May 23, 2010, Covington was cited for fourth-degree assault, accused of punching two men after a verbal altercation, though the Benton County District Attorney's Office did not pursue charges.

2011: Graduation from OSU

In 2011, Covington graduated with a bachelor's degree in sociology.

August 2, 2018: Visit to the White House

On August 2, 2018, after winning the Interim UFC Welterweight Championship, Covington visited President Donald Trump at the White House to present him with the title.

2019: Embracing Villain Status

Before his 2019 main event against Robbie Lawler at UFC on ESPN 5, Covington embraced his villain status by using Kurt Angle's WWE entrance theme and having Trump's sons cage-side.

May 2020: Parting Ways with American Top Team

In May 2020, after a prolonged public feud with other American Top Team members, Covington left his first mixed martial arts gym.

March 22, 2022: Covington allegedly assaulted by Masvidal

On March 22, 2022, Colby Covington was reportedly assaulted outside a Miami Beach Papi Steak restaurant by Jorge Masvidal. Covington allegedly suffered a broken tooth after being punched twice in the face. Masvidal was arrested and charged with aggravated battery and criminal mischief.

November 6, 2023: Masvidal pleads no contest to battery charge

On November 6, 2023, Jorge Masvidal pleaded no contest to misdemeanor battery. This plea resulted in the felony charges for aggravated battery and criminal mischief against him being dropped in relation to the alleged assault on Colby Covington.