California cancels all combat sports through May
The California State Athletic Commission has canceled all combat sports events in the state through May, according to an announcement Thursday from the state's Department of Consumer Affairs.
The measure was taken due to the coronavirus pandemic.
"The Commission didn't take this decision lightly and understands the potential economic loss to promoters and the industry of combative sports," the CSAC statement said. "We had to weigh the best interest of our fighters and the community around us."
Per the release, the decision was based on guidance from California Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Department of Public Health "to protect Californians against the possible spread of COVID-19."
The move will affect the UFC Fight Night card featuring lightweights Dustin Poirier and Dan Hooker, which was scheduled for May 16 in San Diego.
The UFC has vowed to forge on with shows after postponing three in March and early April, starting up again with UFC 249 on April 18. No location has yet been determined for UFC 249 or the displaced San Diego card.
The UFC has three other events in April and May -- scheduled for Lincoln, Nebraska; Oklahoma City; and Sao Paulo, Brazil -- that have not yet been officially changed.
Bellator announced Monday that its May slate of three events, including two in California, would be postponed.
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