Colby Covington, an American freestyle wrestler, is among the athletes who have received calls from the US President. He still enthusiastically recalls his conversation with Donald Trump in 2018 after winning a fight in the Octagon.
However, Covington is now excited about the prospect of watching four Arab fighters at the RAF (Real American Freestyle) event in Abu Dhabi on November 14th. The main event of the tournament at the Etihad Arena will be Covington's match against Hamzat Chimayev, a star from Russia and the UAE, in the heavyweight crossover championship.
Significant attention will also be paid to fighters from Bahrain—Hamza Kuhaiji and Murtaza Talha, Jordan—Ali Al-Qaisi, and Egypt—Osama Elsayed, as these four Arab athletes are ready to demonstrate their skills in the RAF, the professional unsanctioned freestyle wrestling league.
Covington supported the Arab fighters, expressing hope that they can succeed on the big stage. He stated: 'It is very important to use local athletes from the markets we visit and show this region that one day they can be on this stage.'
In Covington's opinion, wrestling can change destinies, and he shared lessons with young athletes that they can learn from his experience—daily hard work to achieve a dream. He added: 'I hope I can be a good example and role model for these guys.'
He emphasized that he is motivated by self-belief and is not afraid of battles, stating: 'I love to fight. Sometimes you need to be ready to fight for your dreams.'
For athletes, wrestling is not just about inflicting damage on an opponent with strength and skill, but also about the ability to overcome life's difficulties. Covington explained that it is not about physical fighting with hands, but about the need for deep inner searching for confidence and overcoming all doubts. He noted: 'You have to overcome all distractions and all people who say you won't achieve anything. That is the essence of wrestling.'
He expressed hope that he can teach these athletes to fight for what they want in life so that they can change their lives and provide a better future for their families.



