UFC fighter Colby Covington found himself at the center of controversy this weekend after putting rapper Lil Pump in a chokehold during a livestream. The incident, which was meant to be playful, quickly escalated into an uncomfortable situation, leaving viewers stunned as they watched the rapper gasp for air before his body went limp.
Covington, known for his trash-talking persona and in-cage aggression, demonstrated his MMA skills on Lil Pump, but the move clearly went too far. The video, which captured the event, begins with Covington already locking in the chokehold while the rapper struggles to free himself. Fans were particularly alarmed as Covington tightened his grip for approximately 10 seconds before finally letting go.
Fans react with outrage over dangerous stunt
Lil Pump, visibly struggling to breathe, appeared to tap out, albeit on his own chest, an action that went unnoticed by Covington. The normal practice in MMA is to tap out on the opponent’s body or the ground, signaling the end of the hold. However, Covington continued, leading to the rapper going limp momentarily before being released.
The livestream caused an uproar among viewers, many of whom criticized Covington for his reckless behavior. Fans were quick to point out that Lil Pump is not trained in martial arts, making the situation even more dangerous. Some even blamed the person filming, arguing that they should have intervened before things went too far.
A dangerous example?
The incident also sparked a larger conversation about the responsibility athletes have when showcasing their skills in non-professional settings. Covington’s move was seen as a joke by some, but others voiced concerns about the message it sends to young, impressionable fans. With Covington being a former UFC champion, his actions carry weight, and critics fear that this kind of behavior could inspire dangerous imitations among fans unfamiliar with the potential consequences of MMA techniques.
As the backlash continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether Covington will address the incident. For now, though, the UFC star’s actions have left a lasting impression-one that raises questions about boundaries, safety, and responsibility in the world of combat sports.