The global pandemic continues to haunt the world with the increase in the number of infections. The united states is recording 550,000 new cases every day. . To no surprise, the UFC has introduced new fight day protocols applicable from UFC 270 to avoid further spreading the virus amidst the events.
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A test is no longer needed for the fully vaccinated fighters in the fight week, outside of a pre-departure test required for anybody traveling to the event. This applies to the coaches and the cornermen as well.
The fighters and their coaches do not need to get themselves tested if the UFC has a record of their vaccination. However, if the vaccination proof is provided upon check-in at the hotel, that would be accepted as well. All the fighters received a letter explaining all of these mentioned protocols.
On the other hand, if the fighter or any team member does not provide formal vaccination proof, that person will be considered unvaccinated and must go through the test procedures under the new protocols.
Anybody arriving for the event between Jan 17th to Jan 19th must get themselves tested twice. The first test is conducted during their arrival at the host hotel. The second test is done on the 20th of Jan for the pre-event testing. For anybody arriving after the 20th of Jan, one round of testing will be done at the host hotel.
However, every fighter and coach associated with UFC 270, needs to get a pre-departure test done. The test needs to be done at least 72 hours before the departure from a certified facility. A home test certificate, won’t be considered. wearing a mask is mandatory while being present in the weigh-ins, backstage, or even the octagon floor regardless of the vaccination status.
How did the ufc manage to host the events amidst covid?
The UFC has done a phenomenal job in hosting events while battling Covid-19. The events were hosted with a live audience while strict restrictions were imposed. The years 2020 and 2021 were very successful for the UFC hosting some of the best fights. However, the fighter along with their respective teams had to follow Covid appropriate norms.
Strict masking rules were applied where every single individual in the event must wear a mask. Multiple numbers of tests were also conducted to ensure the prevention of the further spread of the virus. As many as 3 tests were conducted.
The first test is the home test where the fighter needs to monitor themselves at home. Followed by this test, a throat swab is conducted while the fighters must be under isolation awaiting the result. If they test negative, they can carry out their activities. A final test would be conducted on the day of the final weigh-ins.
If any fighter tests positive in any of the following tests, the officials examine the situation and determine if the fighter can fight post-recovery.
Following these strict protocols, the UFC managed to host all its events with utmost safety without compromising on the conduction of the event.
