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Tuesday, Apr 28, 2020

Michael Chiesa Releases Statement on Whether He’ll Fight During Coronavirus Pandemic

Michael Chiesa (photo via UFC / YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Although the UFC will be holding cards on May 9th, it doesn’t sound like Michael Chiesa will be competing on any cards in the near future.

Due to restrictions on public gatherings and travel to battle the coronavirus, the UFC has been forced to postpone several events to date. But, recently the promotion announced UFC 249 will take place on May 9th in Jacksonville, Florida, and that events will also be held on the 13th and 16th.

Despite those plans, Chiesa recently shared out the statement below.

View this post on Instagram

“When are you going to fight again?” • That’s a question many of us fighters are being asked regularly. On the heels of my biggest win to date, there is nothing I want more than to get back in the octagon and compete. Fighting in an empty arena feels almost advantageous to me after the time I spent on TUF. Competing in that type of environment is not what I’m worried about. It’s the preparation that’s holding me back. Gyms are closed, training partners are scarce, and coaches/teammates are doing what’s best to protect the heath of their family. All of which are things I empathize with 110%. On top of that, there’s other problems behind the scenes that are better left unsaid. I know many fighters are experiencing the same challenges in trying to put together a camp right now. There’s some people that have enough resources to make it happen right now but unfortunately, I’m not one of those people. • Ultimately I have two choices. One is keep doing what I can to stay fit and wait for restrictions to lift. The other is to make some choices and moves to get me in a position where I can be confident I can prepare for a fight. My stance on who I fight next will remain the same, it has to be someone ranked ahead of me. Out of respect for that short list of guys and the wishes of my family, I’m not showing up unless I can be at my absolute best. • All I can say is, I hope to get back in there sooner than later and I am proactively searching for solutions on my own. I hope everyone out there is staying safe, and staying healthy. God bless. • #visionquest #campchiesa

A post shared by Michael Chiesa (@mikemav22) on

The 32-year-old Chiesa (17-4) is coming off a decision win over Rafael dos Anjos and has won three straight, since moving up from lightweight to welterweight.

posted by FCF Staff @ 3:02 pm
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