UFC star Colby Covington joined the growing voices criticizing LeBron James after a video emerged of the Los Angeles Lakers player entering USC’s arena and promptly taking a seat during the national anthem.
Covington expressed his views on Wednesday night in anticipation of his welterweight bout against Leon Edwards at UFC 296 over the weekend.
RELATED: LeBron James Spotted On Camera Gambling With Mystery Woman In Las Vegas
“If you despise America so much and harbor disdain for the country that has granted you immense wealth, then leave it. Alternatively, face me. Head over to China, where you endorse sweatshops exploiting laborers and mistreating women for meager wages while you amass your fortune. LeBron James, you’re a coward—a spineless one at that, and frankly, a disgrace.”
“F— you LeBron James. You’re a coward. You’re a spineless coward and you’re a b—-.”
The video, shared by Orange County Register reporter Luca Evans on X, captured James entering the Galen Center with his younger son Bryce and two teammates from Sierra Canyon High School. Notably, James sat down as the national anthem played, keeping his hat on, a customary practice during the anthem. Towards the end of the video, he eventually stood.
Critics argued that James displayed “zero respect” for the U.S. and accused him of harboring anti-American sentiments due to his failure to stand for the anthem. As the video gained traction, Evans defended the situation, stating, “As the reporter who took this video, this is gross and completely mischaracterizes the situation. LeBron has done this for YEARS in Bronny’s time at Sierra Canyon. It’s objectively the best time to walk in so he doesn’t cause a massive stir. Stop it.”
Notably, James did not participate in the game against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday.