Kevin Syler reveals positive COVID-19 test forced withdrawal from Dana White’s Contender Series 27

Kevin Syler is the latest fighter to test positive for COVID-19.

The unbeaten prospect was supposed to headline Dana White’s Contender Series 27 on Tuesday in a lightweight contest against Kenny Cross. The event is scheduled to take place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas and it’s now being headlined by Ty Flores vs. Dustin Jacoby.

Syler’s withdrawal at the time of MMA Junkie’s report remained unknown, but the Bolivian fighter took to Facebook to announce it was due to a positive for coronavirus.

“I must announce my withdrawal from my fight August 4th,” Syler wrote on a statement on Facebook. “I have tested positive for Covid 19. The symptoms started around the start of this week. Unfortunately, I couldn’t say anything about it until the tests came back. I apologize to Contender Series, my opponent Kenny Cross, and everybody that was excited to see this fight.

“I was prepared and on weight, but God is in charge and I hope we can reschedule this match for a later date. This is the first time I’m forced to withdraw from a match in my amateur and pro career. I have fought sick. I have fought despite having my cheekbone fractured 4 weeks out of the fight. I have fought guys that missed weight. Anyway, this one is out of my hands. We’re in a global pandemic and the safety of everyone comes first. Thank you everybody for the huge support!! I’ll be back @ufc @seanshelby”

Syler (10-0 MMA) competed on Season 3, defeating Lance Lawrence in a lopsided unanimous decision victory. But due to Syler missing weight by 6.5 pounds, UFC president Dana White passed on the opportunity to sign him and award him a UFC contract.

“El Niño Bala” trains out of American Top Team in Coconut Creek, Fla. Syler last fought in December and defeated Franco Aranda by submission at Combate Bolivia MMA 3.