Khabib: All welterweights should refuse to fight Covington

Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov came to the defense of Jorge Masvidal following his arrest on Wednesday.

"Gamebred" was taken into police custody following a reported altercation with UFC welterweight opponent Colby Covington at a Miami Beach restaurant Monday.

Covington alleged that Masvidal punched him twice in the face. The report also states Covington suffered a fractured tooth and wrist abrasion.

Nurmagomedov was surprised the police became involved in the altercation. He also suggests that other welterweights should decline to fight Covington.

If you are stronger than someone inside the Octagon, it does not mean you can insult his children. No one has the right to insult someone's family. Once you have gone down that path, then be ready to back up your words. You were attacked by professional fighter, the same as you are, your own size, and you go press charges against him to the police? I think all welterweights should refuse to fight Colby, just don’t accept fights with him, let him sit without a fight, it will probably significantly affect him and all fighters who even think of insulting families, who is provoking the fighters to look for someone in restaurants to deal with him.

Masvidal, 37, was arrested and charged with one count of aggravated battery resulting in great bodily harm and one count of criminal mischief. He was released Thursday after bail was set at $15,000.

The former friends turned bitter rivals squared off in the Octagon at UFC 272 on March 5. Covington emerged victorious with a unanimous decision in the five-round main event.

In the leadup to the bout, Covington mentioned Masvidal's wife and called him "a deadbeat dad," among other insults, according to Farah Hannoun of MMA Junkie.