Colby Covington Praises Dillon Danis Ahead of RAF07 Matchup

Covington says Danis has "the strength of 10 men" and won't be underestimated.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 8:20pm

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In a surprising turn of events, UFC fighter Colby Covington has spoken positively about his upcoming opponent Dillon Danis ahead of their co-main event matchup at the RAF07 event in Tampa, Florida. Covington acknowledged Danis' combat sports experience and physical strength, stating that he won't be underestimated. Despite their history of antagonizing fans and opponents, Covington is approaching the match with a respectful mindset, though he remains prepared for any unexpected behavior from the unpredictable Danis.

Why it matters

The matchup between the two polarizing figures in combat sports is generating significant interest, as both Covington and Danis are known for their brash personalities and willingness to stir up controversy. Covington's change in tone towards Danis is unexpected, as the two have traded barbs in the past. This shift in approach could signal a more mature and strategic mindset from Covington as he looks to secure a victory in the high-profile RAF07 event.

The details

Covington will be returning to the wrestling mats to take on Danis, a former champion in his own right, in the co-main event of RAF07 on March 28 at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida. Covington praised Danis' strength and combat sports experience, noting that Danis "fought those 10 Dagestanis last time in that Khabib brawl (at UFC 322)," and that he won't be underestimated. Covington also acknowledged Danis' recent boxing victory over Logan Paul, stating that Danis "beat up Logan Paul in boxing so bad that Logan has to sue him." Despite their history of antagonism, Covington is approaching the match with a respectful mindset, though he remains prepared for any unexpected behavior from Danis.

  • The RAF07 event will take place on March 28, 2026 in Tampa, Florida.
  • Covington and Danis will compete in the co-main event of the RAF07 card.

The players

Colby Covington

A UFC fighter known for his polarizing personality and wrestling skills, who is now competing in the RAF promotion.

Dillon Danis

A former champion in combat sports, known for his brash behavior and involvement in the infamous UFC 322 brawl with Khabib Nurmagomedov's team.

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What they’re saying

“He's a strong guy – he's got the strength of 10 men. He fought those 10 Dagestanis last time in that Khabib brawl (at UFC 322), so that's someone that's not to be underestimated and to be respected. So I respect Dillon. It's going to be a great match. He has a lot of combat sports knowledge, a former champion. It's going to be a great match and I'm excited to get out that on those RAF mats again.”

— Colby Covington (MMA Junkie)

The takeaway

Covington's respectful approach towards Danis ahead of their RAF07 matchup is a surprising departure from their typical antagonistic dynamic. This shift in tone could indicate a more strategic and mature mindset from Covington as he looks to secure a high-profile victory, while also highlighting the unpredictable nature of the combat sports landscape.