UFC London to be relocated due to coronavirus pandemic

Photo Credit: Jay Anderson - Cageside Press

UFC Fight Night London on March 21st. will be relocated due to the novel coronavirus pandemic according to UFC president, Dana White. The event, expected to headlined by former welterweight champion, Tyron Woodley, and perennial contender, Leon Edwards - will be relocated in the coming days, as the promotion attempt to identify a new venue and location.

News of the relocation follows the Nevada State Athletic Commission's decision to suspend all combat sports in the state as a precautionary measure - which puts the dampers on UFC Fight Night Portland, and UFC Fight Night Columbus, as both events were recently moved to the UFC Apex gym in Las Vegas. It's believed UFC 249 in Brooklyn will also be relocated, as the organization attempt to keep the fifth pairing of Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Tony Ferguson intact.

The promotion released an official statement where they outlined the United States as a potential location for UFC Fight Night London.

"Due to rapidly changing circumstances in the U.K. including recently implemented travel restrictions, UFC Fight Night: Woodley vs. Edwards, originally scheduled for Saturday, March 21st., at the O2 Arena in London, will be relocated. The organization are looking at available options, including the United States. Additional details will be announced in coming days. O2 ticket holders may seek a full refund at the point of purchase. UFC looks forward to returning to London at the earliest opportunity."

Due to the recently instated travel restrictions banning the entry of U.K. and Irish citizens to the United States - the promotion have also suffered a number of blemishes to the card. A lightweight scrap between Marc Diakiese, and promotional debutante, Jai Herbert has been lost. A flyweight meeting between Molly McCann, and Ashlee Evans-Smith is also believed to have been scrapped, while Kevin Holland's meeting with Jack Marshman has also been shelved. The promotion has since issued an email to managers, calling for short notice replacements. 

"Because we are moving this event to the U.S. next weekend, there will be a number of open spots on that card. If you have currently under UFC contract, from bantamweight to welterweight, who wants a short notice fight, please let me know. If you have any UFC vets or fighters ready for UFC on a week's notice, please let me know. DO NOT email me about anyone who is not a U.S. CITIZEN or does not have A CURRENT P1 VISA. Thanks!"

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