Souza (photo via YouTube)

By FCF Staff

UFC 249 is still proceeding tonight in Jacksonville, Florida, but the card has lost one bout, as “Jacare” Souza has tested positive for COVID-19.

The middleweight was scheduled to fight Uriah Hall at the event. After news of Souza’s positive test broke, the UFC released the following statement (statement via MMA Junkie).

“UFC’s medical team examined Souza and his two cornermen and found them to be currently asymptomatic, or not exhibiting the common symptoms of COVID-19. As per UFC’s health and safety protocols, all three men have left the host hotel and will be self-isolating off premises, where UFC’s medical team will monitor their conditions remotely and will provide assistance with any necessary treatment.”

Recently video has surfaced, which shows a masked Souza interacting with Fabricio Werdum in close quarters and not social distancing.

Just spoke with a FL state commission official who said he is still very comfortable with UFC 249 proceeding despite the positive test. Said Jacare disclosed a recent contact with an infected relative and was isolated upon his arrival until results came back. "The system worked."

— Adam Hill (@AdamHillLVRJ) May 9, 2020

"Isolated" pic.twitter.com/fJaIsiuB0Y

— Austin Price (@AJPrice803) May 9, 2020

The 40 year-old Souza (26-8, 1 NC) hasn’t fought since November when he lost via split decision to Jan Blachowicz.