UFC's Colby Covington faces backlash for choking Lil Pump unconscious despite multiple tap outs

"He tapped multiple times," fans criticize Colby Covington after viral video shows him choking out Lil Pump.

A livestream incident involving rapper Lil Pump and former UFC interim welterweight champion Colby Covington has left fans in shock. 

During a live broadcast on Pump’s Kick account, Covington was seen choking the 24-year-old rapper, leaving him visibly distressed and out of breath. 

The alarming footage, which has since gone viral with over 20.9 million views, shows Covington tightening his grip around Lil Pump's neck as the two grappled on the mat.

In the video, the rapper, known for his hit “Gucci Gang,” appeared to be in pain as he tapped the mat in a plea for Covington to release him.

Colby Covington choked Lil Pump out cold 😳 pic.twitter.com/tCLQ1wZbo7

— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) September 22, 2024

Despite the apparent taps, Covington intensified the chokehold, even looping his leg around Pump’s hip. 

Moments later, Lil Pump seemed to lose consciousness, prompting an onlooker to exclaim, "He's out, he's out." Covington then released the hold and stood up, while another person rushed to assist the unconscious rapper.

Fans on X (formerly Twitter) were quick to react, with many expressing outrage over Covington’s behavior. 

One user decried, "This is absolute loser behavior from Colby," while another added, "He tapped multiple times. Colby should be demoted on his jiu-jitsu belt and should never be allowed to fight again." 

Others expressed shock at the apparent disregard for Lil Pump's safety, with comments like, "He tapped out like seven times, even looked at the people around for help."

However, some viewers suggested a different narrative, claiming that Lil Pump may have asked for the chokehold. 

"He asked to be choked out. For Colby not to stop until he was out, no matter what... you can tell he got what he wanted when he woke up," one commenter speculated.

Covington, who boasts a 17-4 MMA record and ranks fifth in the UFC’s 170lb division, has not fought since his loss to Leon Edwards last December. 

The viral video has reignited debates on fighter responsibility and the potential dangers of live-streamed content.