Mixed Martial Arts professional, Jorge Masvidal, has reached a plea deal with prosecutors on Monday involving the dropping of two felony charges linked to his attack on fellow fighter, Colby Covington in March 2022. The incident took place shortly after their fight at UFC 272, which Covington won. According to Covington, the altercation resulted in significant injuries including a “brain injury,” a fractured tooth, an abrasion on his wrist, and severe damage to his Rolex watch. Covington also claimed that Masvidal said, “You shouldn’t have been talking about my kids” during the incident.
A report from MMAjunkie.com revealed that, as part of the plea agreement, Masvidal pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor battery charge in Miami-Dade County, Florida court. Masvidal attended the court proceedings accompanied by his attorney, Saam Zanganeh. As a result of his plea, he was sentenced to “time served” which includes previous appearances at police stations and court hearings, in addition to court costs.
Despite the misdemeanor charge, this plea deal holds considerable significance for Masvidal as two felony charges of battery and criminal mischief were dropped. If convicted, these would have seen the former UFC welterweight contender facing up to 15 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. Despite his non-appearance in court on Monday, Covington was reportedly given the option to attend. The guilty verdict for the misdemeanor battery charge will remain on Masvidal’s criminal record.
Covington and Masvidal were former training partners and friends at American Top Team before a fallout transpired between them. Masvidal retired from the MMA after suffering a loss to Gilbert Burns at UFC 287 in April. However, he has recently mentioned his interest in returning to the boxing circuit soon. Meanwhile, Covington is set to return to the ring, competing for the welterweight title in the UFC 296 main event against Leon Edwards on December 16.