UFC president Dana White insists the promotion's system works as they gear up for action tonight, despite one of their fighters testing positive for coronavirus.
With the majority of sport still in shutdown, UFC 249 is going ahead without fans tonight in Jacksonville, Florida.
But the card was thrown into doubt this morning after middleweight Jacare Souza tested positive for Covid-19, along with two of his corner.
His fight has now been pulled from the card, with White claiming that the promotion's extensive testing regime works and that the positive test was 'not unexpected'.
"We administered 1,200 tests this week, on 300 people," UFC president Dana White 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."
Two members of Souza's team also returned positive Covid-19 tests, leaving UFC no option but to remove that bout from the card altogether.
A UFC statement said: "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.
"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.
"From their arrival earlier in the week until their departure today, Souza and his cornermen followed UFC health and safety protocols, including practicing social distancing, wearing personnel protective equipment, and self-isolating whenever possible."
None of the other athletes due to compete at UFC 249 have returned positive tests for coronavirus, meaning the event should still go ahead.
Hall posted a message of support to Souza on Twitter after hearing the news.
He said: "Brother I know it sucks I’m sorry you have to go through this I am beyond devastated for the missed opportunity I wish you nothing but recovery for you and your family."
UFC have been implementing strict measures to reduce the risk of coronavirus spreading, including testing all athletes and staff upon their arrival in Florida.
The event was originally due to take place in April, but was postponed due to the outbreak.
Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was scheduled to top the bill before pulling out due to being stuck in his native Russia, leaving Gaethje to step in to face off with Ferguson.
