UFC cuts bout after fighter tests positive for coronavirus

MICHAEL REAVES / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

Ronaldo 'Jacare' Souza became the first UFC fighter to test positive for COVID-19 ahead of a scheduled bout in Florida on Saturday night.

His fight against Uriah Hall has been cancelled, but the UFC 249, which is a behind-closed-doors event, will proceed as scheduled.

Souza and two of his cornermen are asymptomatic, the mixed martial arts promotion said in a statement.

"All three men have left the host hotel and will be self-isolating off premises, where UFC's medical team will monitor their conditions remotely and will provide assistance with any necessary treatment," UFC said.

All fighters taking part in Saturday's event were tested for the coronavirus on arrival in Florida.

More from Sports News

News

  • UAE President receives Lebanese counterpart

    President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, in his first official visit to the country since taking office.

  • UAE authorities conduct air ambulance mission in Oman

    Emirati authorities carried out an air ambulance mission for an injured person who "suffered a sudden health problem" in Oman, it was announced on Wednesday. 

  • UAE President holds talks with Ecuadorian leader

    UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the President of the Republic of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, met on Wednesday to discuss strengthening cooperation in economy, trade, renewable energy, sustainability, investment, tourism, and agriculture.