Colby Covington Files Civil Suit Against Jorge Masvidal for 2022 Battery Incident

Colby Covington, a former interim welterweight champion in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), has initiated a civil lawsuit against his former teammate and rival, Jorge Masvidal. Filed on March 23, 2026, in Miami-Dade County, the lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $50,000 for injuries Covington claims to have sustained during a battery incident that occurred on March 21, 2022. Covington alleges that the attack resulted in "bodily injury and resulting pain and suffering, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life, and loss of ability to earn money."

Colby Covington sues Jorge Masvidal for $50K in damages from 2022 attackESPN

The conflict between Covington and Masvidal escalated following their fight at UFC 272 on March 5, 2022, where Covington defeated Masvidal by unanimous decision. In the aftermath, Masvidal threatened Covington, leading to a physical confrontation outside a Miami restaurant just weeks later. During this altercation, Covington reported sustaining injuries, including a chipped tooth and damage to a watch. Masvidal faced criminal charges but ultimately pleaded guilty to misdemeanor battery, resulting in a two-day jail sentence and fines.

ESPNColby Covington sues Jorge Masvidal for $50K in damages from 2022 attack

Covington's lawsuit outlines various claims, including permanent injuries and ongoing suffering. He asserts that the attack has affected his future earning capacity and overall quality of life. The civil complaint does not specify the exact nature of Covington's injuries but emphasizes the long-term impact on his health and finances. Covington has requested a jury trial to seek "all allowable damages," although no court date has been established.

Colby Covington sues Jorge Masvidal for $50K in damages from 2022 attack

A significant legal question surrounding this lawsuit pertains to the statute of limitations in Florida, which allows a four-year window for filing claims related to battery. If the statute began on the date of the attack, Covington's lawsuit may be close to being time-barred. However, if the timeline is affected by Masvidal's guilty plea or sentencing, it could potentially validate Covington's claim.

Colby Covington sues Jorge Masvidal for $50K in damages from 2022 attack

While Covington's legal actions are ongoing, some observers have raised concerns regarding the timing of the lawsuit, suggesting it may be an attempt to capitalize on the public interest surrounding their rivalry. Critics argue that the lengthy delay in filing could undermine the credibility of Covington's claims.

Colby Covington sues Jorge Masvidal for $50K in damages from 2022 attack

• “bodily injury and resulting pain and suffering, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life and loss of ability to earn money.” — Colby Covington, Plaintiff

ESPN

• “Gamebred” was ultimately charged with a few felonies, and they were reduced to a misdemeanor battery charge when he took a plea deal. — Source

Colby Covington sues Jorge Masvidal for $50K in damages from 2022 attack

This lawsuit marks a significant chapter in the ongoing feud between Covington and Masvidal, highlighting the complexities of legal recourse in high-profile sports rivalries.

ESPN