Tyron Woodley explains why he’s not interested in running it back with Colby Covington in RAF

Tyron Woodley has ruled out a rematch with Colby Covington in professional wrestling, dismissing the rivalry that once defined their UFC feud as no longer relevant to his current ambitions. The former UFC welterweight champion made his debut at RAF (Russian American Fighters) at RAF 12, where he defeated Joaquin Buckley in an entertaining bout before immediately securing a main-event slot against rising star Khamzat Chimaev at the inaugural RAF event in Moscow.

Woodley's decision reflects his belief that Covington simply isn't the caliber of wrestler he wants to face anymore. The two share a wrestling pedigree—both are former All-American wrestlers—but Woodley downplayed Covington's credentials, noting that their training camp sessions years ago revealed a gap in skill. While Covington ultimately defeated Woodley when they fought in the UFC, "The Chosen One" was in the midst of a losing streak at that time, and Woodley contends Covington would have avoided the match during his prime.

Woodley has grander aspirations now. He expressed interest in facing Olympic gold medalist Jordan Burroughs or UFC-based wrestler Arman Tsarukyan—fighters who represent the elite competition he craves. Chimaev himself, despite his recent rise, comes from a lesser wrestling background than Woodley, making a victory over the former champion a significant statement win.

Covington, meanwhile, is rebuilding his brand outside the cage with ventures like Real American Beer, and Woodley suggested the matchup would serve Covington far more than himself. With his credentials—two-time NCAA champion, conqueror of national champions and Olympians—Woodley views his RAF opportunity as a chance to compete at the highest level and cement his wrestling legacy against the promotion's elite.