The MMA and bare-knuckle league has scheduled ten bare-knuckle bouts for the night, followed by the main event between the former UFC champion and the Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist.
1xBet is once again the title partner, adding Rome to the series of high-profile tournaments the brand has supported around the world. The Italian capital will now stage a major combat sports event organized by HYPE Fighting and 1xBet.
Covington returns after Ecuador withdrawal
Covington was originally set to headline the joint HYPE Fighting and 1xBet event in Ecuador on October 4, the night José Aldo faced Marlon “Chito” Vera. An unexpected circumstance kept the former UFC title contender out of the octagon, leaving fans waiting for news. He is now back in shape and ready to top the card in Rome.
The two fighters bring very different styles. Covington is known for his technical wrestling and a high pace that tires opponents out, while Danis is a decorated Brazilian jiu-jitsu and grappling specialist who can finish a fight from any position on the ground.
Dillon, facing a fighter of this caliber is a big step forward. What role will a victory over Colby play in your athletic legacy and your plans in MMA?
Haha, a step forward? I’m already ahead of Colby, and I’m ready to prove it in the octagon.
This will not be their first meeting. At RAF 7 in March 2026, Covington beat Danis 14-4 in a wrestling match. The rules in Rome will be different: a win can only come by submission, through a joint lock or a choke.
Colby, following the events in Ecuador, you’re once again headlining a big tournament. What does this fight mean to you personally in terms of your future career?
Every fight is important to me; every bout reaffirms my strength and bolsters my spirit, and taking on Dillon is, at the very least, a pleasure for me.
Ten bare-knuckle bouts on the undercard
Before the main event, the crowd will see ten bare-knuckle boxing matches. One of the most anticipated is Francesco Morandi against Ali Heibati, a heated matchup that adds more interest to a full night of fights, with every fighter on the card getting a chance to make a name for themselves.
Next stop for HYPE Fighting and 1xBet
The Rome event is the latest step in the partnership between HYPE Fighting and 1xBet, following their joint event in Quito on October 4. In Rome, the ten boxing matches will lead into the main MMA bout between Covington and Danis.
Fans can follow HYPE Fighting for updates ahead of the event, pick their favorites, and make predictions with 1xBet. The tournament will be broadcast live on 1xBet.
