Ronaldo Souza Tests Positive for COVID-19, Pulls Out of UFC 249

By Neil P. First Posted: May 10, 2020 09:40 AM EDT

UFC fighter Ronaldo Souza pulled out from UFC 249 scheduled on Saturday night after he tested positive for COVID-19, according to a recently published article.

Ronaldo Souza Tests Positive for COVID-19

Brazilian fighter Ronaldo Souza was about to have his bout in American Uriah Hall, which was initially scheduled for April 18 in New York but was postponed because of the health threat brought by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Aside from Souza, two of his cornermen also tested positive for the virus, according to UFC. On their official website, it says: "UFC's medical team examined Souza and his two cornermen and found them to be currently asymptomatic, or not exhibiting the common symptoms of COVID-19."

They also added: "As per UFC's health and safety protocols, 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."

They also added that Souza and his two cornermen are now following the quarantine health and safety protocol and will be self-isolating. Additionally, they will be monitored by the UFC's medical team remotely and will be given medical assistance and necessary treatment.

UFC Fight Will Be Held Without Fans

Due to the present global health COVID-19 pandemic, the UFC fights will be broadcast through pay-per-view, but there will be no fans. This is to control the entry and spread of the virus that continues to infect more than 4 million people around the globe, according to a recently published article.

Before their scheduled fight, all 24 fighters, including their cornermen and all essential personnel, were tested for the virus when they arrived in Florida. They have also been self-isolating while waiting for the result of their tests.

In an interview with Dana White, UFC President, he said: "It's not unexpected one person would test positive. The system works. And what's good about this is now we know Jacare tested positive, he's doing what he needs to do, and we're in a position to help him if he needs it."

The UFC clarified that no other fighters and essential personnel were infected except Souza and his two cornermen. They also added that the other 11 bouts would proceed as scheduled.

Update About UFC 'Fight Island'

It can be remembered that Dana White announced last month that he is one step closer to closing a deal to get a private island where he will hold UFC fights. Moreover, UFC is the first sports company to return amid COVID-19.

In a recently published article, Dana White insisted that his UFC 'Fight Island' is now on the process of building its structures and will be operational in June.

Dana White said: "All the infrastructure is being built right now and getting put in place. As we get closer to that, then I'll start figuring out booking fights, getting guys ready. Plus, I can ship guys over there earlier, and they can start training over there, on the island."

He also added that once the fighters and their personnel arrive on the island, they will be tested for the virus and will follow the health and safety protocols.