In the ever-unpredictable world of mixed martial arts, drama outside of the Octagon often matches the intensity within it. Recently, tensions flared between two top fighters when Dustin Poirier took direct aim at Colby Covington in a fiery roast that left fans speechless. The verbal assault, delivered with Poirier’s signature cool confidence, shocked the MMA community and escalated a rivalry that has been quietly brewing for years.
Known for his humble demeanor and warrior spirit, Poirier seldom engages in trash talk unless pushed. However, during a recent podcast appearance, “The Diamond” didn’t hold back. He slammed Covington with harsh criticisms, questioning not just his fight game, but his character. The jabs were sharp, personal, and undeniably viral.

The Roast Heard Around the Fight World
Speaking candidly during an interview on “Thiccc Boy Podcast” with Brendan Schaub, Poirier was asked about the possibility of ever fighting Covington. His response was both honest and explosive:
“I’d fight him in the street before I give him a payday in the Octagon,” Poirier said. “That guy’s a fake tough guy, a clown. He’s built his whole image on stirring the pot and showing no respect.”
The remarks quickly made headlines. In just a matter of hours, the clip racked up millions of views across social media. Fans were astounded not only by Poirier’s willingness to go off-script but also by the venom in his words—something rarely seen from the usually even-keeled Louisiana native.
Bad Blood Boiling
While the UFC community is no stranger to trash talk, the animosity between Poirier and Covington runs deeper than promotional hype. Both fighters have ties to American Top Team, one of the premier MMA gyms, and personal disputes have long festered behind the scenes.
Covington has notoriously fallen out with several former teammates, including Jorge Masvidal and Joanna Jędrzejczyk, but his feud with Poirier takes on a different tone. The two share not only professional roots but have had overlapping social circles, particularly during their time training in Florida.
Poirier continued his verbal takedown by critiquing Covington’s persona:
“He plays this role like he’s in the WWE. I’m a fighter, not an actor. What he does? That’s not real. The people he disrespects, the things he says… It’s disgusting.”

Colby Covington’s Response
In true Covington fashion, he didn’t take long to fire back. Speaking to ESPN MMA, he called Poirier “a jealous lightweight” and claimed Poirier was using his name for clout. Whether Covington genuinely felt attacked or recognized a golden promotional opportunity remains a topic of debate.
Regardless, fans now find themselves captivated by the potential of a grudge match that may never happen. Although Poirier, a lightweight contender, and Covington, a welterweight, are separated by a weight class, stranger things have transpired in UFC matchmaking history.
Fuel to the Fire
With Poirier’s words echoing throughout the MMA world, many speculate that the UFC could capitalize on the boiling bad blood. Dana White has been known to entertain cross-divisional bouts when the narrative captures the public’s imagination—and this one clearly has.
Whether or not the fight ever materializes, Poirier’s roast of Covington will go down as one of the most memorable verbal beatdowns in recent MMA history. The message was clear: some feuds go far beyond the cage.
FAQs
- Why did Dustin Poirier roast Colby Covington?
Poirier expressed deep-rooted disdain for Covington, accusing him of being disrespectful, inauthentic, and opportunistic. Their shared history at American Top Team has contributed to longstanding tension. - Have Dustin Poirier and Colby Covington ever fought?
No, the two fighters have never competed against each other in the UFC. Poirier has consistently dismissed the idea of giving Covington a “payday.” - What weight classes do Poirier and Covington fight in?
Poirier fights in the lightweight division (155 lbs), while Covington competes in the welterweight division (170 lbs). - Is there a possibility of them fighting in the future?
While unlikely due to weight class differences, strong fan interest and growing personal animosity could make the bout a real possibility if the UFC sees value in it.