DC looked at Covington with a knowing smile. "I noticed you and Ye Chen had a little interaction earlier. What was going through your head during that encounter?"
Covington paused for a moment, taking a breath, before replying with a grin, "I could see the fear in his eyes. He wouldn't even dare to meet my gaze; he practically hid behind his girlfriend! Honestly, relying on her for support just proves who he really is. If it weren't for Annie, how would he have garnered such a following?
Thankfully, there were plenty of staff members around, or else I might have let my fists do the talking right then and there. I would have ensured he faced the consequences of his actions."
DC couldn't help but laugh at Covington's bravado. The banter didn't faze Covington; he understood the staff were tuned into the tension. But he wasn't performing for them; his focus was on his supporters in the audience. Their perception of him mattered far more than that of DC or anyone else.
Amused, DC remarked, "It seems like you didn't share many training videos leading up to this fight. It's evident you've taken this battle seriously. So tell us, are you confident in defeating Ye Chen?"
Covington responded, "Absolutely. Those training videos? They're snapshots of my daily life. Even in the off-season, my work ethic remains relentless. I'm dedicated – just like any true champion, embodying the essence of hard work and persistence.
I'm not one to depend on anyone else. The moment Ye Chen arrived, all he could think about was Anne; he's exploited her to cash in on our efforts. It's disgusting. This time around, I intend to strip away his façade and reveal him for what he truly is: a clown and a coward."
Regardless of the topic at hand, Covington's skill in stirring debate never faltered. This elicited another chuckle from DC.
Meanwhile, the interview was nearing its halfway point. Logan took a brief pause before asking, "Aside from your own match, another fight that has everyone talking is the Chimaev versus Leon matchup. Many believe Chimaev could pose a significant challenge for you in the title race. What's your take on their impending clash?"
Ye Chen engaged thoughtfully, "Are we discussing potential outcomes?"
Logan nodded affirmatively.
Ye Chen considered for a moment before replying, "Leon's striking is multifaceted, showcasing significant strength throughout the tournament. But we're all aware of Chimaev's game plan. The pivotal question will be: Can Leon withstand Chimaev's initial onslaught?
Leon is not known for being a high-tempo, explosive kind of fighter... so I believe Chimaev has a real chance to edge this one out."
Logan pressed further, "If Chimaev does take the victory, he'll have claimed wins over two top-five competitors. That would certainly entitle him to a title shot against you. What are your thoughts on potentially facing him?"
Ye Chen shook his head gently. "Right now, my sole focus is this upcoming fight. I'm someone who relishes the competition and the thrill of being in the Octagon. We'll see what happens when the time comes. If he earns the chance to challenge me, I'd be more than willing to accept."
Logan continued, "Your fanbase is rapidly approaching that of Conor McGregor. People are already speculating that you could be the next Conor. After catapulting to fame and fortune suddenly, have you ever felt lost, confused, or tempted to indulge deeply in those luxuries? Training can get incredibly monotonous and tiresome, after all..."
As Logan spoke, a sudden shout from Catwoman, waiting on the side, broke the tension. Logan laughed, "Apologies Annie, when I mention indulgence, I'm not talking about women; I mean other distractions."
Ye Chen firmly interjected, "I wouldn't consider myself the next Conor McGregor; I'm my own person. I don't trash talk for the sake of it. My intention is to transcend where he stands, not replicate him.
Of course, I've pondered indulgence at times, but as a fighter, my career is fleeting. I've chosen to save that lifestyle for after my retirement. In the present, I derive joy from training and the adrenaline that comes with competing."
Logan then prodded, "I know you've expressed interest in moving up to middleweight. Is there a particular fighter you'd like to share the cage with someday?"
"Fedor," Ye Chen replied without hesitation. "Growing up, I watched countless videos of his fights online, and it was his prowess that drew me into the world of MMA. He is, and always will be, one of the defining figures of our sport. It's unfortunate I couldn't compete alongside him; otherwise, I would have cherished the opportunity to face my idol directly."
Logan nodded in appreciation, "Fedor is undoubtedly a legend in MMA. Now, turning back to your situation..."
As the interview approached its conclusion, DC leaned in with a question. "Colby, many analysts previously speculated you wouldn't stand a chance against Ye Chen. This includes Chimaev and Leon..."
"Who?" Covington interjected, raising an eyebrow.
"Chimaev and Leon," DC clarified.
"I've never heard those names," Covington replied casually. "Are they competing next week? Is it a UFC match? Are they male or female? It's baffling that Wusman lost to someone I don't recognize; is he just some random fighter off the street?
Seriously, what's in a name? Did their mothers just pick it out of a hat? It's hard to believe anyone would be surprised by their choices…"
These two interview clips quickly made waves online.
What's amusing is that just hours after their release, a separate video surfaced, showing Covington running into Ye Chen by chance and making a show of camaraderie, completely contradicting his earlier claims on air. The internet erupted with laughter.
Before anyone knew it, it was time for the pre-fight press conference. Standard protocol involved a pre-match press event followed by formal weigh-ins. Anticipation hung thick in the air as fans were well aware of Covington's penchant for theatrics. This time, he had publicly criticized Ye Chen, Chimaev, and Leon – all stars in their own right.
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as countless media members gathered. Chimaev walked in to deafening cheers and boos, followed by Leon, who received a moderate response despite his previous accolades, mainly his KO win over Wusman.
When Covington made his entrance, however, the crowd erupted into a chorus of boos, yet he remained unfazed, a smile plastered on his face as he proudly embraced the crowd's reaction.
Finally, Ye Chen took to the stage. While he too faced some boos, the cheers from his supporters drowned them out. In the end, it's clear that not everyone can win the crowd's favor, especially when competing in a foreign setting.
**PS: Huazi (Lyon) is the striker, while Gezi is the one being struck.**