UFC fighter Colby Covington has come under fire after a video surfaced showing him putting rapper Lil Pump in a chokehold during a gym session.

Jun 5, 2019; Oakland, CA, USA; American Rapper Lil Pump performs during halftime in game three of the 2019 NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Toronto Raptors at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports

The incident, which took place on Saturday, sparked outrage online as many fans expressed concern over Covington’s use of a potentially dangerous move on someone with no formal mixed martial arts (MMA) training.

In the video, Covington can be seen tightening his grip around Lil Pump’s neck, causing the rapper to struggle for air.

Aug 3, 2019; Newark, NJ, USA; Colby Covington (red gloves) reacts against Robbie Lawler (not pictured) during UFC Fight Night at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

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At one point, Lil Pump appears to tap out, but taps on his own chest instead of Covington’s body or the ground, as is the standard in MMA. Covington continues to hold the choke for about 10 seconds, only releasing the rapper after he appears to go limp.

Lil Pump, visibly distressed, attempts to regain his composure as those nearby try to help.

Covington, seemingly unfazed, is heard saying, “Look at his eyes, bro! He’s out,” while pointing out Lil Pump’s unresponsive state.

The video quickly made rounds on social media, with many fans criticizing Covington for applying such a move on a non-professional fighter.

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Some even labeled the act as reckless, with a few commenters going as far as calling it “assault” and “attempted murder.” One user noted, “He tapped multiple times.

Colby should be demoted on his jiu-jitsu belt and should never be allowed to fight again.”

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Despite the backlash, Covington, a former UFC champion, did not appear to take the incident seriously, treating the moment as a joke.

However, many fans argued that such behavior is dangerous, especially given Covington’s background as a trained fighter and the potential for others to imitate his actions.

Lil Pump, known for his outspoken political views and controversial antics, did not immediately comment on the incident.

However, the rapper has recently made headlines for his vocal support of former President Donald Trump and his criticisms of various public figures, including pop star Taylor Swift.

Earlier this month, Lil Pump took to social media to lash out at Swift after she endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race.

Taylor Swift performs at Nissan Stadium in Nashville , Tenn., Friday, May 5, 2023.

The rapper used profane language in his posts, telling Swift to “go f— yourself” and questioning her political knowledge.

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He further criticized Swift for endorsing Harris “right after the debate” and accused her of not understanding the impact of inflation on ordinary Americans.

Lil Pump also directed comments at Swift’s boyfriend, NFL star Travis Kelce, telling him to “get her in check” and issuing bizarre threats involving their families.

He claimed that Swift’s wealth insulated her from the effects of inflation, which he argued was harming everyday people.

The incident between Covington and Lil Pump has drawn a mix of reactions, with some defending Covington’s actions as playful and others condemning the use of such a dangerous move on an untrained individual.

As the video continues to circulate, questions remain about whether Covington will face any repercussions for his actions and how Lil Pump will respond.