Following extended layoffs, Covington received a third undisputed title shot against Leon Edwards at UFC 296 in December 2023. The buildup was marked by aggressive pre-fight press conference barbs, but the performance inside the cage lacked his signature fire.
Covington appeared hesitant against the champion's range striking. Edwards chopped away with heavy leg kicks, denying Covington's early takedown entries. Though Covington found wrestling success in the fifth round, the push came far too late. Edwards retained the belt via unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 49-46).
The fight showed the undeniable reality of cage aging: a fighter whose entire style depended on blistering cardio and high-speed chain attacks simply could not afford a fraction of a second in reaction lag. That night proved to be his final walk inside the Octagon.
