In a match that has been described as a "war" by fans and commentators alike, one trash-talking UFC fighter was served "poetic justice" after having his jaw jacked by his opponent.
Following a heated five-round clash, defending UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman (16-1-0) defeated his divisive opponent Colby Covington (now 15-2-0) after referee Marc Goddard decided to stop the fight.
In the build-up to the UFC 245 match, the MAGA hat-wearing Covington had told Usman that he was "going to the hospital tomorrow night". But that's certainly not how Colby's plan went down.
This is the eye-watering moment Usman shattered Covington's jaw (WARNING: this is not for the faint-hearted):Despite entering the cage with equal records, it was Usman who was able to land the TKO and add a 16th win to his victory column.
Following the match, however, Covington took to social media to dispute the result:
"Just a kid from Oregon chasing the American Dream. Working hard and earning everything in my life the hard way since day one. I put myself out there in front of the world to kill or be killed. Marc Godard robbed me tonight with piss poor officiating. He let my opponent fake injuries for extra time and stopped the fight early. Just like America, my will and spirit can never be broken.
"Speed bumps can’t slow me down. You people ain’t seen nothing yet."
Colby also had some choice words for referee Marc Goddard:
And per the SCMP, during a post-match press conference, Usman was asked if it was "poetic justice" that Covington had to have his mouth wired shut, to which the champ smiled and responded: "Eh, you said it, right on the money."
It was sweet karma for many UFC fans, who relished in the UFC pantomime villain's defeat. Many viewers quickly took to Twitter to mock the fallen fighter:
Prior to the match, Usman had some choice words for Colby, and warned him that he would feel the wrath of every immigrant living in the US:
But ever the respectful champion, Usman did say the following at the post-match conference:
"At the end of the day, honestly, before I step into that cage I pray every time, not just for my safety but their safety as well. It’s unfortunate he has to go and wire that jaw shut. He said a lot of things, and you have to back it up. He was humble […] I’d like to think he’s humble. I wish him all the best."