Bruce Haring pmc-editorial-managerUPDATE: Jorge Masvidal has signed to replace Gilbert Burns in a title match for the welterweight crown this Saturday at UFC 251 in Abu Dhabi against Kamaru Usman.The need for Masvidal as a last-minute replacement came when Burns fell ill, reportedly with coronavirus.
But signing is one phase one of the deal. Now Masvidal and Usman have to be tested for coronavirus. If they pass, they will be cleared to fly to Abu Dhabi.Masvidal had previously been negotiating with the UFC to fight Usman, but terms couldn’t be reached.
That’s when Burns was given a shot. Masvidal and Usman have a prior history of animosity, getting into a shouting match at the last Super Bowl’s media row.
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