While the UFC may get back up and running next month, a foursome of previously scheduled events has been cancelled by the promotion. On Monday, via their official website, company officials confirmed that UFC Lincoln, UFC Oklahoma City, UFC 250 in Sao Paulo, and UFC San Diego had been cancelled.
In all cases, social distancing and mass gathering restrictions in response to the coronavirus pandemic were listed as the cause. In the case of Sao Paulo, the Ibirapuera Gymnasium, where UFC 250 was to be held, has been converted to a field hospital, adding a further wrinkle.
In each instance, the promotion noted that they look “forward to returning with an event in the near future.”
While the promotion may not be in Brazil on May 9, it is still attempting to put together a card on that date. Where that card may take place, and who it will feature, remains to be seen. The Brazilian show had been expected to feature Henry Cejudo vs. Jose Aldo, and Amanda Nunes vs. Felicia Spencer. It’s unlikely, however, that either of those fights will take place on that date. Nunes recently indicated she wanted time for a proper fight camp, while Aldo had already reportedly been ruled out of the event.
A match-up between lightweights Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje remains the front-runner to top the Frankenstein-esque event. Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, however, is unlikely to fight before September.
The Lincoln card had been expected to be headlined by Anthony Smith facing Glover Teixeira. Oklahoma City’s main event boasted Chris Weidman vs. Jack Hermansson. San Diego initially looked to be the landing spot for Dan Hooker vs. Dustin Poirier.
