Colby Covington calls out 'scumbag' LeBron James and challenges NBA star to fight after Stephen A. Smith confrontation

Colby Covington has called out LeBron James and challenged him to a fight following the NBA star's confrontation with Stephen A. Smith.

James confronted Smith courtside before a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks.

The Lakers superstar took exception to the television personality's comments about his son, Bronny James, who has been struggling with limited action and poor performances in his first NBA season.

After footage of their bust-up went viral, Smith took to the screens to reveal what James said to him during their fiery interaction.

He explained his language was so vulgar that he couldn't repeat it on national airwaves.

Smith also made it clear that he wished 'King James' had talked to him about the issue in a more private setting, but he added he understands where he was coming from as a father.

"That was LeBron James coming up to me, unexpectedly I might add - to confront me about making sure that I mind what I say about his son," he revealed.

"I can't repeat the words because they ain't suited for the airwaves. That's what he was doing."

UFC star Colby Covington slammed LeBron James for confronting Stephen A. Smith. Image: Getty

UFC star Covington, who has previously hit out at James, has jumped to the defence of Smith.

He branded the 40-year-old a 'scumbag' as he pulled no punches in an expletive-filled video.

The former interim UFC champion also challenged James to a fight.

"You’re a scumbag, LeBron," he began. "You don’t care about this country that made you all that money, and I hope you f**king get sick and f**king and worse… I don’t wanna say any worse but you’re a terrible human being. You put target on the backs of our law enforcement, our f**king first responders, who you use privately for your family to secure... So, you’re just not a good person. You’re despicable."

Covington concluded: "And I despise you. F**k LeBron James you b*tch ass motherf**ker. Come see a real ass motherf**ker and get your ass knocked the f**k out without your private security."