Ronaldo 'Jacare' Souza has been pulled out of his bout with Uriah Hall at UFC 249 after testing positive for coronavirus, Mirror UK reports.
The Brazilian middleweight was due to fight on the undercard of Justin Gaethje's clash with Tony Ferguson behind-closed-doors in Jacksonville, Florida on Saturday.
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.
