Covington blames Jones for Steveson’s 12-second KO loss

Colby Covington blamed Jon Jones’s influence and coaching for Gable Steveson’s first mixed martial arts defeat, prompting a public response from Jones after Steveson was knocked out in 12 seconds by Sean Sharaf at UFC 331 on September 19. Covington made the criticism in an interview in late September, saying Steveson had become overconfident and was looking past opponents. He argued that Jones’s presence in Steveson’s corner was a negative influence and said Jones was not a proven coach. Covington recommended that Steveson leave Jones and train with Daniel Cormier, a suggestion that reflects Covington’s opinion; the reports do not indicate that Steveson plans to do so. Jones rejected Covington’s claim that his influence contributed to the loss. In posts on X, he called Covington’s reasoning illogical and pointed to Steveson’s previously unbeaten start. Jones also criticized Covington personally, saying the former college roommates had achieved very different levels of success and accusing Covington of being preoccupied with him. The exchange escalated as both men brought up past grievances.