Despite instituting several protocols designed to guarantee as much as possible the health and safety of their athletes, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic is still being felt in the UFC.
Matt Frevola, who was intended to face Frank Camacho at this weekend’s card inside the UFC Apex facility in Las Vegas, has been removed from the card after one of his cornerman — UFC featherweight Billy Quarantillo — tested positive for the coronavirus amid the battery of tests that fighters are subjected to throughout fight week.
This comes despite Frevola have already confirmed the presence of Covid-19 antibodies in his system, indicating that he has already suffered — and recovered from — the virus.
As Frevola explained: “The UFC has pulled me from my fight due to one of my cornerman testing positive for COVID-19. We did everything possible to make this fight happen. They tested me twice and both results came back negative. I also provided proof of my positive antibodies test from April 30th but the UFC did not want any liability or to risk it. Being that there is a lack of knowledge on the incubation period and still so many unknowns regarding covid 19, they decided to pull me bc of the positive test result from my teammate and brother, Billy Q.
“He’s been a huge help and source of support throughout camp and I have no hard feelings. He is 100% healthy at the moment and feels fine, so he must be a symptomatic. This is a Crazy situation and everything happens for a reason. I am on weight and prepared to the fullest. I was really excited for this fight with Frank and told him if they find him a new opponent for Saturday I will be rooting for him. If not, I’m willing to rebook this fight ASAP or when ever he wants. I’m sorry to everyone who was excited to watch me fight and supports me along this journey, I really felt the love. Can’t believe I’m the first fighter to get 2 fights canceled due to this virus (without even having it) but I know it has effected a lot more lives in worse ways 
. Figuring out the next move from here and will keep moving forward, that’s what we do! Should be booked to fight again ASAP and hope the UFC continues to take care of me.”
The UFC was among the first sports leagues in the world to resume operation after an extended coronavirus hiatus. Their first card back in Jacksonville, Florida generated headlines when it was announced that Ronaldo ‘Jacare’ Souza was removed from the card after testing positive for the virus.
Frevola’s place on the card is taken by UFC debutant Justin Jaynes.
