Colby Covington would grant Conor McGregor a title shot if he’s able to dethrone Leon Edwards.

Former title challenger Covington is expected to challenge welterweight champion Edwards this year. McGregor (22-6 MMA, 10-4 UFC) is expected to fight Michael Chandler (23-8 MMA, 2-3 UFC) later in 2023, as well.

Covington has admiration for the impact former UFC dual champion McGregor has had on MMA and said he would be honored to share the octagon with him.

“He’s a great fighter, a history-maker,” Covington said on the MSCS MEDIA podcast. “He’s made history multiple times. Knocking out Jose Aldo in (13) seconds was one of the most incredible things that’s ever happened in the UFC. The things he’s done in the sport, no one’s ever been able to do. Conor’s the ultimate showman and he’s the ultimate businessman.

“I love what Conor’s done. I hope to be able to cross paths with him and fight him someday after I win this world title against Leon ‘Edward Scissorhands Scott’ from the U.K. That could be my next fight in line. I have nothing but respect and admiration for Conor and what he’s done in this sport. He’s made it possible for every fighter. It’s trickled down, what he’s done in the sport – the money and everything.”

McGregor (22-6 MMA, 10-4 UFC) and Chandler (23-8 MMA, 2-3 UFC) are expected to fight after their coaching stints on Season 31 of “The Ultimate Fighter,” which airs Tuesdays on ESPN and ESPN+ through Aug. 15.

Before “The Notorious” can return, he needs to rejoin the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) drug testing program, and according to a statement MMA Junkie acquired from the company, McGregor is expected to start getting tested “immediately.”