Ronaldo Souza has spoken out after testing positive for coronavirus.
Souza (26-8 MMA, 9-5 UFC), who was scheduled to face Uriah Hall last week at UFC 249, received a positive test for COVID-19 one day before the event and, as a result, his bout with Hall was scrapped. Two of Souza’s cornermen also tested positive.
On Wednesday night, Souza released his first statement on social media, saying that he hopes his fight with Hall can be rebooked as soon as he’s medically cleared.
“I was very sad to not be able to fight at UFC 249, but I want you to know that, as soon as I’m medically cleared, I hope to reschedule my fight with Uriah Hall so that I can put on the show that everyone expects,” Souza said. “I thank my corners for the partnership, my opponent for the words of support and the UFC for all the care.
“Thank you all for the kind messages I have received in the last few days. The upcoming weeks I will be secluded with my family and coaches and focused on our health so I can be back soon.”
Upon arriving in Jacksonville last Wednesday, Souza notified the UFC that he’d been in contact with a family member who had COVID-19. Souza wore gloves and a mask at weigh-ins and was visibly distant from Hall at the face-offs. But a couple of hours later, Souza was notified that he tested positive, the second known UFC fighter to be infected with COVID-19 after Lyman Good came forward last month.
According to UFC president Dana White, both Souza and Hall were paid for their canceled fight.
'Jacare' Souza issues statement after positive COVID-19 test, wants Uriah Hall fight rebooked
