Colby Covington appears at WSOP playing poker, talks about UFC White House visit
UFC fighter Colby Covington appeared at the poker tables during the 2025 WSOP, sharing his thoughts on the UFC's invitation to the White House while playing, drawing attention from both the combat sports and poker communities.
UFC welterweight star Colby Covington recently turned up at the 2025 World Series of Poker (WSOP), and the outspoken fighter took a break from the tables to give media interviews about his thoughts on the UFC's recent invitation to the White House.
From the Octagon to the Poker Table
Covington is no stranger to poker, but the WSOP stage is still new to him. He sat at a mixed-game table, sparring with several professional players, looking relaxed. Asked why he came to play WSOP, Covington said, "Poker and fighting both require strategy, patience, and the ability to read people. I enjoy this mental battle."
He didn't reveal which specific events he entered, but based on the scene, he likely played the $1,000 buy-in No-Limit Hold'em event. Covington stressed he's not a pro player, just enjoying the challenge poker offers.
On the UFC White House Visit
The conversation quickly turned to the recent news of the UFC being invited to the White House to meet with the U.S. President. Covington expressed excitement: "This is a huge honor for the UFC. Combat sports are finally getting the recognition they deserve." He mentioned that UFC President Dana White led several champion fighters on a tour of the White House, where they discussed topics like sports and veterans with the President.
Covington himself did not accompany the group, but he believes the visit marks an important step in MMA's mainstream acceptance. "We're no longer a fringe sport; we're a real sport." He added that poker and fighting are similar in this regard—both are fighting for more social recognition.
The Intersection of Poker and Fighting
Covington also talked about how he applies poker skills to his fighting training. "Reading cards is like reading an opponent's expressions and weaknesses. In the cage, you also have to quickly gauge the other guy's intentions." He joked that if he loses at poker, he's just "paying tuition" to the poker world.
The WSOP crowd welcomed Covington warmly, with many fans lining up for photos. The fighter said he might appear more frequently at poker events in the future. "If time allows, I'll come back. Poker is fun, and it gives me a break from training."
Summary
Colby Covington's WSOP trip was brief, but it added a splash of color to the crossover between poker and fighting. Regardless of his final results, his enjoyment of the process earned respect from both players and fans. And his take on the UFC's White House visit reflects the rising status of mixed martial arts in the United States.
FAQ
- Covington did not disclose specific events, but according to on-site reports, he likely participated in the $1,000 buy-in No-Limit Texas Hold'em event. He emphasized that he is not pursuing rankings, but focusing on the experience.