Epidemic on “Fighting island”: the main fight of the UFC cancelled 251

Brazilian fighter Gilbert burns passed test positive for coronavirus. His fight against Camara Usman for the title of champion in the Welterweight division, which was to become the main event of UFC 251, is repealed. In addition to burns dangerous infection also diagnosed participants in the next tournament to “Fight island” Marina Rodriguez.

251 UFC, which should be the first of a series of tournaments “Fight island” and take place on July 12, suffers losses. Participant of the main fight of the event Gilbert burns (19-3) dropped out of the match against Camara Usman (16-1) after his test for coronavirus was positive. After training camp in Florida, the Brazilian fighter along with members of his camp flew to Las Vegas (one of the city hubs where athletes cross over to UFC Abu Dhabi), where before being sent to the island he revealed a dangerous infection.

“Devastating news, feel bad, but I’m going to win this battle! Stay safe out there!” — reported burns on Twitter.

With high probability Uthman now also not getting on my plane to Abu Dhabi. Burns was supposed to be a rival former teammate in his second title defense of the champion of UFC in light-Middleweight weight, getting this opportunity due to the fact that the negotiations with Jorge Masvidal on titulnik failed because of financial disagreements between the parties. Burns became one of the contenders, having run of six victories in a row this year, having dealt already with two top veteran welterweights Demian Maia and former champion Tyron Woodley.

To replace burns was offered to go on short notice Colby Covington (15-2), who wants to have a rematch with Usman, who was lost in December last year in the title fight. In addition, hinted at its willingness to replace Gilbert and Jorge Masvidal (35-13).

However, the final decision on the fate of the title fight the UFC will be accepted. Because burns has already made the mandatory Challenger to push him out of the title race just can not be. Here are several scenarios: either Usman meets with another fighter, and burns later disputes the title with the winner or the battle of Uthman and burns will be delayed for a longer period. Experts and insiders while inclined to believe that the fight it will take. Since the Brazilian to heal completely within two weeks, the fight can go on one of the next tournaments “Fight island”.

Also the disappointing news came from the team of Marina Rodriguez (17-6). 16 July, she was supposed to meet with Karl Esparzas (12-0-2) in the third bout of UFC Fight Night: Khattar vs. Yoke, but now is forced to withdraw from the fight — in the sanitary zone of “Fight island” the Brazilian is also passed test positive for coronavirus.

According to the medical Protocol in force to “Fight island”, all participants will play five tests for the coronavirus. The first check they will be held for 48 hours before flying to Abu Dhabi. Upon arrival in the country they will have a second testing. After that, they will be accommodated in hotels, where they will remain quarantined. Then all will pass the test for the third time and will be back in isolation until the results come. Only the next stage of their crossing on Yas island, where they will make the fourth precompetitive test. The final test they have to go through after the fighting, and only in case of negative reaction, soldiers and other participants will be allowed to go home.

The third fighter, starring from his match at “Fight island” — Tagir Ulanbekov of (10-1). The Russians were supposed to debut in the best League in the world on July 18 at UFC Fight Night: Figueredo vs. Benavidez 2 bout against Alexander Moskaljuk, but because of the death of his trainer, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov in the near future will arrive in Abu Dhabi. To replace him will be Malcolm Gordon.