Coronavirus forces ONE Championship to postpone April events

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ONE Championship, much like Bellator MMA, is going to sit this one out.

While Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is trudging forward with its April 18 fight card, Chatri Sityodtong is going to instead take his mixed martial arts (MMA) promotions to the sidelines in an effort to help flatten the curve.

“Unfortunately, ONE Championship will have to postpone its closed-door, audience-free events for April due to new COVID-19 restrictions,” Sityodtong said. “The good news is that these short-term restrictions will undoubtedly slow down the coronavirus, and flatten the curve. To be clear though, it needs all of us to work together with vigilance. The most important thing that we can do as individuals is to follow the strict orders of our respective governments and to practice social distancing, good hygiene, and telecommuting. The virus cannot spread if we all stay at home. It really is as simple as that.”

ONE had shows booked for April 17 and April 24.

Bellator has already canceled its events through May, so the earliest Scott Coker and Co. will return to action is June. As for UFC, the promotion is hoping to secure a “west coast” facility and remain there for several events.