Another UFC Fighter Tests Positive for COVID-Fight Called Off

Aiemann Zahabi was set to fight fellow bantamweight Drako Rodriguez this weekend. However, a positive COVID test has ruled him out of the fight. It is understood that his opponent will not be fighting on this card either due to the lack of time in finding a replacement. 

This year has been a tough year for the UFC with the pandemic obstructing events. However, Dana White and his team ensured that the fights continued. The company figured out a way to host events in keeping with the most stringent safety protocols. 

In order to keep everyone safe, the UFC tests fighters multiple times before they’re allowed to fight in the octagon. Zahabhi failed his COVID test before boarding a flight to Las Vegas. 

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Aiemann Zahabi vs Drako Rodriguez is the third fight to be canceled from this weekend’s card

Zahabi took to social media to share the unfortunate news with his fans. He said, “Hey everyone, I’ve got some pretty devastating news for myself and for those who want to watch me fight on Saturday. For my pre-flight COVID-19 test I ended up getting a positive result. And I ended up getting sick for a couple of days.”

The Canadian fighter continued, “So I was not able to fly out to Vegas to compete this Saturday, December 19th. But please guys enjoy the show. I’m going to hopefully get this COVID-19 out of my system soon and get a quick turnaround for the fight. I really appreciate it if you guys can stick with me for the upcoming fight I will have after this one. Thank you!”

Zahabi is currently on a two-fight skid. He last fought in May 2019 when he succumbed to a loss against Vince Morales. Aiemann was scheduled to take on the newcomer and Dana White’s Contender Series alumni, Rodriguez. 

Since Rodriguez could not book a fight this weekend, the fight between the two men will most likely be rescheduled for the earliest date possible.