McGregor Denies Viral Video Mocking Covington’s Quick Defeat in Rome

Conor McGregor has forcefully rejected a viral clip circulating on social media that appeared to show him laughing at Colby Covington’s rapid submission loss at the RAF-Hype Italy crossover event in Rome.

Covington, the former interim UFC welterweight champion, made his debut with the Hype promotion against Raul Rosas Jr. on short notice, replacing Dillon Dannis in a 10-minute, submission-only grappling match. The 22-year-old Rosas Jr. secured a victory in just 43 seconds, tapping out the 38-year-old Covington.

Following the bout, a video gained traction online purporting to show McGregor—who was in attendance—laughing uncontrollably at the result. McGregor addressed the clip directly on social media, labeling it “false and fully edited.”

“I had an amazing and fun time at the show in Rome tonight, as is evident in the clip of myself laughing, however its placement as if it was at this moment of the show is FALSE,” McGregor wrote. “I do not laugh at competing men and women. I respect them! Win, lose, or draw! Bravo to all the combatants and thank you!”

As of now, the authenticity of the viral footage has not been independently verified. Covington, who has shifted focus toward wrestling and grappling competitions, has not ruled out a future return to the UFC.

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