Chris Weidman says Colby Covington is in for a rude awakening when they meet in the co-main event of RAF 09 on Saturday in Dallas, arguing that his wrestling credentials far exceed those of Covington’s previous opponents.
Speaking to MMA Junkie Radio, Weidman acknowledged Covington’s skills while making clear he sees himself as a significant step up in competition.
“I watched his two matches that he had with Rockhold and Dillon Danis. He has a decent single leg. I think he’s tough. He was a great wrestler when he was competing, and I think he’s a goer, and I’m a goer, as well. I love putting a pace on and trying to get guys tired and break them. He’s tough. He’s 2-0. I will say I don’t think Dillon Danis and Luke Rockhold are on my level respectfully in terms of wrestling at all. So, I do think I’m a big step up in competition for him, and I appreciate him calling me out and wanting a tougher challenge.”
Weidman said he does not concede any clear advantage to Covington, including speed.
“I don’t know if I even give him the speed advantage. I think I’m pretty speedy when it comes to wrestling, but I’ll have to showcase that. His advantages? I don’t know. I don’t know what he’s planning on doing. I think it’s an uphill battle for him to be honest. It’s definitely a tough one. I just hope he doesn’t stall the whole time and run away from me. If he wrestles with me, I think it’s going to be really tough for him. I’m big, I’m strong, I’m good in a lot of different positions in wrestling. I have a lot of freestyle experience. I was a multiple-time All-American in freestyle and also Greco in high school, then I was training for the Olympics in 2008.”
Weidman is making his RAF debut in the bout. Covington enters 2-0 in the promotion following wins over Luke Rockhold and Dillon Danis.