Colby Covington says he and Jorge Masvidal form dynamic duo: 'I'm Batman, and he's Robin'

NEWARK, N.J. – Earlier this month, Colby Covington said he wouldn’t get in the way if longtime friend and training partner Jorge Masvidal got the next UFC welterweight title shot.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean Masvidal deserves it, the former interim champion told MMA Junkie on Wednesday.

“Look at his resume; look at mine. He’s on a two-fight win streak,” Covington said in advance of Saturday’s UFC on ESPN 5 headliner vs. Robbie Lawler. “He’s 2-2 in his last four fights, so you’re going to give a 50-50 fighter a title shot? That doesn’t really make a lot of sense.”

Covington, of course, hasn’t accused the UFC of making many logical decisions over the past year. After being stripped of the interim belt and denied a title shot, he doesn’t put anything past his promoter.

When it comes to the choice between himself and Masvidal, Covington believes the choice is clear.

“We are one of the greatest duos in MMA history,” Covington said. “We’re the Batman and Robin of MMA right now. Of course, I’m Batman, and he’s Robin, but it’s a dynamic duo, and we’re doing great things in the sport. But he’s going to sit back while I get my undisputed title shot.”

If Masvidal gets what he wants, Covington might not have to worry about a conflict. Masvidal is pushing hard for a fight with former two-division champ Conor McGregor despite UFC president Dana White saying he’s “too big” for the Irish star.

Masvidal’s manager, Abraham Kawa, previously told MMA Junkie that the veteran welterweight and viral sensation will only accept McGregor or a title fight next – but he’s since softened on that stance.

Masvidal’s stock has soared with a 5-second knockout of Ben Askren at UFC 239, leading many MMA observers to conclude he should be next in line for champ Kamaru Usman, who’s sidelined until November with an injury.

Covington praised his teammate for the highlight-reel stoppage – and also took credit for it.

White recently said Covington is next if he can beat Lawler, and the ex-champ wants it in writing. Nothing is guaranteed, however, without a win on Saturday.