5 Fighters Poised To Take Conor McGregor’s Place As The Face Of UFC

5. Colby Covington

Yes, Colby Covington.

Welterweight contender (and self-proclaimed champion) Colby Covington is, without question, the most hated man in the UFC at the moment. The outspoken, trash-talking, Donald Trump supporter gets showered with boos everywhere he goes.

His politically-charged rants don't always come across as authentic, but they certainly have the desired effect. Covington's heel persona has helped the former interim champ earn a headlining spot on a stacked UFC 245 card next month.

The 31-year-old understands that being a major draw doesn't mean fans have to love you — they just have to want to watch your fights — even if it's to witness your demise.

Tito Ortiz is a classic example of a fighter who became UFC's top dog by rubbing a large portion of the fanbase the wrong way, and Covington appears to be using a similar playbook.

The UFC clearly sees potential in Covington. After all, UFC 245 features two bouts with more established champions (Max Holloway and Amanda Nunes), yet it's Covington versus Welterweight titleholder Kamaru Usman that's closing the show. This is due to the challenger's ability to sell their feud.

If Covington is successful, and finally becomes the undisputed UFC Welterweight Champion, he'll have an even larger platform, which in turn will lead to even more detractors tuning in to witness his downfall.