What Is Colby Covington’s Net Worth?
Colby Covington, an accomplished American professional mixed martial artist and wrestler, has amassed a net worth of $4 million as of 2025. This financial standing reflects his successful career primarily within the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), coupled with earnings from wrestling and endorsements.
Early Life and Amateur Wrestling Career
Born on February 22, 1988, in Clovis, California, Colby Ray Covington’s journey began with a strong foundation in wrestling. His father, Brad Covington, wrestled at Southern Oregon University and the Oregon Institute of Technology, instilling an early appreciation for the sport. The Covington family relocated to Oregon when Colby was eight years old, where he attended Thurston High School in Springfield. His dedication to wrestling paid off during his senior year when he clinched the 171 lb state championship.
Despite initially committing to Arizona State University, academic requirements led Covington to Iowa Central Community College. There, he achieved a remarkable 34-0 record and secured the 165 lb national junior college wrestling title in his freshman year. Notably, Jon Jones, who would later become a UFC champion, was his roommate during this period. Covington then transferred to the University of Iowa but faced a setback when he was suspended from the wrestling team for a year following a DUI arrest in August 2007. His blood alcohol level at the time was more than three times the legal limit.
After transferring to Oregon State University, Covington showcased his wrestling prowess by qualifying for the NCAA tournament in both his junior and senior years. As a senior, he earned All-American honors with a fifth-place finish. He also won the Pac-10 Conference twice at 174 pounds. In 2011, Covington graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. His wrestling achievements continued after graduation, as he won a gold medal at the FILA Grappling no-gi world championships in 2013.
Professional MMA Career and Earnings
Covington’s transition to professional mixed martial arts (MMA) began after college when he was recruited by American Top Team. By the time he signed with the UFC in 2014, he had already built a 5-0 record. His UFC debut took place on August 23, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 48, where he defeated Anying Wang. He continued his winning streak with victories over Wagner Silva at UFC Fight Night 56 and Mike Pyle at UFC 187. However, his winning streak was interrupted by a loss to Warlley Alves at UFC 194 in December 2015.
Covington rebounded with wins against Jonathan Meunier and Max Griffin at UFC Fight Night 89 and UFC 202, respectively. He followed these victories with wins against Bryan Barberena (UFC on Fox 22), Dong Hyun Kim (UFC Fight Night 111), Demian Maia (UFC Fight Night 119), and Rafael dos Anjos (UFC 225). The victory over dos Anjos earned Covington the Interim UFC Welterweight Championship. However, due to nasal surgery, he was unable to participate in a scheduled fight against then-champion Tyron Woodley at UFC 228 in September 2018, leading to the title being stripped after Woodley fought Darren Till.
In August 2019, Covington defeated Robbie Lawler in the main event of UFC on ESPN 5, setting a UFC record for most strikes thrown in a fight (541). He then faced Kamaru Usman for the Welterweight Championship in December 2019, suffering a fractured left mandible in the third round and losing via technical knockout. A rematch against Usman in November 2021 resulted in another loss via unanimous decision.
Covington’s earnings from his fights vary significantly, but a substantial portion of his $4 million net worth comes from these bouts. Specific details regarding his UFC contracts and payouts are generally confidential. However, high-profile fights, such as those against Usman and Lawler, would have generated significant revenue for Covington, including pay-per-view bonuses and potential sponsorships.
In September 2020, Covington headlined UFC on ESPN+ 36, defeating Tyron Woodley in a technical knockout after Woodley’s rib broke during the fight. In March 2022, he defeated Jorge Masvidal at UFC 272 and won the Fight of the Night award. Earning “Fight of the Night” also comes with a bonus, often around $50,000, adding to his income.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
Beyond his fighting career, Covington has explored other avenues to increase his net worth. In May 2020, he declared himself an independent entity, stating, “I am a member of Colby Covington incorporated. I am a member of Colby Covington business, Colby Covington team, everything. This is my team now.” This move suggests a focus on managing his brand and pursuing business opportunities independently.
While specific details about Covington’s endorsements and business ventures are not widely publicized, it’s likely that he has secured deals with various brands, particularly those aligned with the MMA and sports industries. These endorsements, along with potential investments in business ventures, contribute to his overall net worth.
Personal Life and Controversies
Covington’s personal life has also attracted attention. In May 2010, he was cited for fourth-degree assault following an altercation, although the Benton County District Attorney’s Office decided not to press charges.
Covington is known for his outspoken support of Donald Trump and the Republican Party. After winning the Interim UFC Welterweight Championship, he visited the White House and presented Trump with the title. His political views have often been intertwined with his public persona, generating both support and controversy.
In March 2022, Covington was reportedly attacked by UFC rival Jorge Masvidal at a restaurant in Miami Beach, resulting in a broken tooth. Masvidal was charged with criminal mischief and aggravated battery, highlighting the intense rivalries within the MMA world.
Colby Covington’s Net Worth – A Summary
Colby Covington’s $4 million net worth is a result of his successful MMA career, wrestling background, and entrepreneurial endeavors. His earnings from UFC fights, potential endorsements, and business ventures have contributed to his financial standing. While specific details about his contracts, investments, and endorsement deals remain largely confidential, his career trajectory indicates continued potential for future financial growth.