Michael Chiesa got right to the point after he defeated Rafael dos Anjos at UFC Raleigh: he wants to fight Colby Covington next. But, while talking to the media afterwards about his challenge, Chiesa explained the move was strategic rather personal.

Chiesa explains calling out “Chaos”

“Maverick faced dos Anjos in the co-main event of the UFC’s latest event, and once again, Chiesa’s grappling game delivered him the win. During his post-fight interview in the Octagon, Chiesa kept it short and promptly said he wants Covington next. While talking to the media backstage, however, the 32-year-old elaborated on the call out (quotes via MMA Fighting):

“I just beat the No. 5-ranked guy in the world, and I always say the most important time to ask for a fight is after you win,” Chiesa said. “You’ve got to capitalize. I’m not out to engage in some verbal pissing match with [Covington]; I respect his skills and he’s super tough. I’m just trying to get to a world title, and I think that’s the fight that makes the most sense when you look at the top-five. I said before the fight, I beat Rafael dos Anjos; I’m not fighting anybody that’s ranked less than five. I’m taking his spot and just looking at the landscape of the division, that’s the fight that makes sense.

“I want to be tested, I want to fight the best, so Colby it is.”

“….“But I think it’s a fight that makes sense, and I wouldn’t go ask for some outlandish matchup. Anytime I’ve won a fight and asked for an opponent, I’ve usually gotten it, and that’s because it’s all well thought-out. I just don’t throw things against the wall that aren’t gonna stick. I just think it’s a fight that makes sense, I think it’s a fight I could get, so we’ll see what happens.”

Due to Covington’s habit of making controversial statements and slinging insults, it wouldn’t be surprising if fans thought Chiesa was targeting “Chaos” for personal reasons. But, it doesn’t sound like that’s the case (or if Chiesa does have issues with Covington he’s not airing that publicly).

But will Covington take the fight?

It’s a smart move by Chiesa, as there’s no doubt a win over Covington would move him into the title shot mix. But, will “Chaos” be on board?

As this is being written, the UFC’s rankings haven’t been updated yet, so we don’t know where Chiesa is going to wind up as a result of beating RDA. But, even if he moves into the #5 spot, you have to wonder if Covington might target someone who has been in the welterweight division for a little bit longer. For example, like a bout between Covington and the loser of the March 21st bout between Tyron Woodley and Leon Edwards.

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