For the third time in recent days the UFC has been forced to change a headliner due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s being reported that Leon Edwards has contracted the coronavirus and as a result, he can no longer fight Khamzat Chimaev.
The welterweight contender was booked to fight the rising Chimaev (9-0) at the UFC’s December 19th card. The bout had a fair bit of buzz in hardcore fan circles, as Edwards would have been the highest ranked fighter Chimaev has faced to date.
Further, it would have marked the first time in 2020 that Edwards would have fought. Due to the pandemic, Edwards had a scheduled bout with Tyron Woodley earlier this year postponed.
But, ESPN is reporting that sources have confirmed Edwards (18-3) has come down with COVID-19. Further, it’s also being reported that Edwards has a serious case of the virus and that he’s lost 12 pounds in just four days.
So, hopefully the talented fighter has a fast and full recovery. The UFC is reportedly hoping to rebook Edwards – Chimaev for earlier 2021.
The report also states that the UFC is looking at moving a scheduled bout between longtime welterweight contender Stephen Thompson and the rising Geoff Neal into the main event spot.
Recently both Kevin Holland and Curtis Blaydes were forced out of main event fights due to positive tests for COVID-19.
Here is the revised line-up for the UFC’s December 19th event, which is scheduled to take place at the Apex Facility in Las Vegas (line-up via MMA Junkie).
Geoff Neal vs. Stephen Thompson
Greg Hardy vs. Marcin Tybura
Rob Font vs. Marlon Moraes
Misha Cirkunov vs. Ryan Spann
Jose Aldo vs. Marlon Vera
Michel Pereira vs. Khaos Williams
Manel Kape vs. Alexandre Pantoja
Belal Muhammad vs. Dhiego Lima
Antonio Arroyo vs. Deron Winn
Sijara Eubanks vs. Pannie Kianzad
Drako Rodriguez vs. Aiemann Zahabi
Tafon Nchukwi vs. Jamie Pickett
Rick Glenn vs. Carlton Minus
Tyson Nam vs. Matt Schnell
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