However, it appears that the title bout could be in jeopardy because a report from Combate is stating that Figueiredo has tested positive for the coronavirus. The report states that Figueiredo is getting another test done shortly, as the fighter has yet to board a plane to Fight Island for next weeks event.
Wallid Ismail, who is Figueiredo’s manager, says that the fighter had the virus two months ago, so something must be wrong with the test.
“Not true, he was positive for the virus two months ago,” Ismail said to BJPENN.com. “He can not still have the virus activity right now in the body. Something is wrong.”
The UFC would be forced to pull Figueiredo from the title bout if the second test comes back positive, meaning the backup fighter Alexandre Pantoja could replace him and fight for the vacant UFC Flyweight Title.
There has been no comment yet from the UFC on Figueiredo’s status for next weeks card or if Pantoja will potentially replace him against Benavides.
UFC Fight Night: Figueiredo vs. Benavidez II takes place on Saturday, July 18 from Fight Island in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi with Deiveson Figueiredo and Joseph Benavidez headlining. Fightful is providing live coverage of the event, which airs live on ESPN.
