UFC Vegas 17 loses yet another fight due to COVID-19

Last week’s UFC 256 event lost several fights because of COVID-19, and now this weekend’s (Sat., Dec. 19, 2020) UFC Vegas 17 event — set to go down in Las Vegas, Nevada — is suffering the same fate.

After losing the Rick Glenn vs. Carlton Minus fight, as well as Belal Muhammad vs. Dhiego Lima as a result of positive COVID-19 cases, Aiemann Zahabi has tested positive and forced out of his fight against Drako Rodriguez.

“It’s heartbreaking for me not to be there fight week in Vegas but thankfully my COVID-19 symptoms haven’t been too bad so far,” explained Zahabi on social media. “Wishing you all love and safety during this pandemic.”

As a result, the event will go on with 13 bouts.

The original main event between Khamzat Chimaev and Leon Edwards was also canceled after “Rocky” tested positive for COVID-19, which prompted the promotion to elevate the Stephen Thompson vs. Geoff Neal Welterweight bout as the headliner. In the co-main event, Jose Aldo will take on Marlon Vera, while Marlon Moraes takes on Rob Font in Bantamweight action.

To see the entire UFC Vegas 17 lineup click here.