New COVID Policy Could Alter Upcoming UFC Fights

A new COVID-19 vaccination travel policy could cause a ripple effect in the UFC.

In a report by MMA Junkie, the UFC has released a note to fighters and fight teams regarding a change. Foreigners entering the U.S. will need to be fully vaccinated.

That change goes into effect November 8. And proof of one of the seven WHO approved vaccines must be made available.

A negative COVID test from a 72-hour period will also be required. This includes those crossing from Canada and Mexico.

The memo states “Foreign national air travelers to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of their vaccination status to fly to the United States.

“Fully vaccinated travelers will also be required to show a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of travel prior to boarding their flight.”

In the memo, it also says that “To be clear, this is NOT a UFC policy. UFC is not requiring you to get vaccinated. We are simply communicating the new guidelines recently announced by the U.S. government.”

The UFC has already started to book fights for 2022. 

“You should consider your options, such as traveling to the United States before this new U.S. government policy takes effect,” the memo notes, “of if you choose, make arrangements to take the appropriate vaccination.”