UFC 251: Jorge Masvidal’s coach Mike Brown to miss Kamaru Usman bout after contracting coronavirus
Covid-19 affects first Fight Island event once again after Usman’s original challenger Gilbert Burns pulled out with the disease
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Not only is Jorge Masvidal stepping in to fight for the UFC welterweight title on just six days’ notice this weekend, but he will also be doing so without his main coach in his corner.
Welterweight champion Kamaru Usman (16-1) was originally set to defend his championship against Gilbert Burns at UFC 251, but the Brazilian challenger was forced out of the first ‘Fight Island’ main event last week after testing positive for Covid-19.
And now Mike Brown, coach of Masvidal (35-13), has also contracted coronavirus.
As a result, Brown will not travel to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, where this weekend’s card will be held. He has not been in contact with Masvidal in recent days.
“Just heartbroken I’m not going to see Jorge win the world championship in person,” Brown told ESPN.
“Nobody deserves it more than this guy. Nobody has paid more dues.
“Jorge is also one of the most thoughtful athletes I’ve ever met. He makes everyone feel they are with him and a huge part of this journey.
“The truth is this guy has been honing his skills for more than 20 years and developed one of the highest fight IQs the sport has ever seen.
“As far as being Covid positive, I feel good. The only pain I feel is in my heart.”
According to ESPN, Masvidal’s corner in Abu Dhabi on Saturday night will consist of Paulino Hernandez, Jesus Gallo and Abraham Kawa, and ‘Gamebred’ is deciding on the fourth cornerman in Brown’s absence.
Masvidal’s first UFC title shot comes seven years after he debuted in the promotion.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments