MMA as a sport is relatively young but a strong ‘fandom’ is always somewhat of a surprise. Jorge Masvidal might be staring down the barrel of criminal charges but his fans are sticking by him – despite three back to back losses in the octagon.
As with most fans, some had a particularly eccentric way of showing their adoration to Masvidal. In order to ingratiate themselves to their idol they’ve created a fanfiction type mash up that’s… sketchy to say the least.
In order to push the narrative that Masvidal was victorious over Covington they spliced parts from earlier Masvidal bouts and strung them onto that ‘taking a knee for first responders’ bit from the actual bout from UFC 272.
mma fans should not be allowed access to video editing software. pic.twitter.com/nrA3G6BSta
— Dovy🔌 (@DovySimuMMA) April 1, 2022
During the late rounds of the UFC 272 Masvidal vs Covington main event, Joe Rogan even went on to bet they would hug after – and of course what followed was a groin grab, harsh words and an assortment of law enforcement officers entering the octagon in order to maintain peace.
Fast forward a few weeks – Covington was on the fullsend podcast and had gone out to a steakhouse in Miami with Menery and others. Their location prompted Masvidal and several unidentified individuals to cause an altercation outside the restaurant. The conflict was captured on CCTV of a nearby restaurant.
Disguised Masvidal can be seen punching Covington, reportedly chipping his tooth in process and ditching out of the scene. Pretty much as soon as altercation became public the rumors started swirling that Nelk boys played a part and had set up Covington.
A visibly distraught Covington talked to Police officers and expressed disdain as to how Masvidal would know his location. More details would be released after.
Masvidal seemingly, and unwisely, confirmed the conflict on his social media just a short while later.
He was subsequently charged with felony battery.
In Florida, Felony Battery is any intentional and unconsented touching or striking, which results in great bodily harm to another person or which occurs after a previous conviction for battery. The offense is a third degree felony, with maximum penalties of up to 5 years in prison.