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Rafael dos Anjos is currently on a two-fight losing streak, with his most recent fight being a unanimous decision loss to Michael Chiesa.
Dos Anjos’ fight with Chiesa was preceded by another defeat via unanimous decision to Leon Edwards. The former UFC Lightweight Champion's bouts with both Chiesa and Edwards were contested at Welterweight.
The Brazilian-American former UFC Lightweight Champion, Dos Anjos, had confirmed that his next fight would see him return to the Lightweight division.
Rafael dos Anjos reveals he’s tested positive for COVID-19; Out of UFC 254 fight
Rafael dos Anjos was scheduled to fight Islam Makhachev in a Lightweight bout at UFC 254 that takes place later this month.
However, Dos Anjos has now taken to his official social media account to reveal that he would be unable to compete at UFC 254 as he has tested positive for COVID-19.
Dos Anjos’ tweet addressing his positive COVID-19 test and withdrawal from UFC 254 read as follows:
“Life is like those things that we don’t understand now, but that will be revealed in the future. I left the comfort zone in the United States to come to Rio de Janeiro and restart my career. The stay was the best possible, feeling the warmth of my wonderful city, breathing the smell that only the ocean here has, and sharing the joy of the priceless smiles of my people even hidden behind the masks.”
“Being able to be taken care of by the health professionals who are the best in the world and who I trust with my eyes closed, experiencing the training with the best coaches and other professionals who struggle every day to achieve their dreams.”
“I came to rescue my dream of becoming a champion again, and that goal was achieved. Sharing my experiences with the Nova Uniao team and learning many details to improve my game and close the gaps in the future, none of this was in vain. Unfortunately I will not be able to compete on the 24th. COVID-19 caught me big time and the doctors cut me out. But soon I will be back victorious inside the Octagon! Nothing can take away the blessing that is upon us. God will provide.”
With Rafael dos Anjos out of the fight, who will Islam Makhachev face at UFC 254?
Islam Makhachev is currently on a six-fight winning streak and has been improving as he works his way towards the top of the UFC Lightweight division.
Furthermore, a win over a former UFC Lightweight Champion like Rafael dos Anjos would’ve surely done wonders for Makhachev’s standing in the division and his career as a whole.
However, with Rafael Dos Anjos out of their UFC 254 fight, fans can expect the UFC to book Makhachev against another higher ranked Lightweight. The new opponent may not necessarily be a former champion.
We here at Sportskeeda would like to wish Rafael dos Anjos a safe and speedy recovery.
Who’d you like to see Islam Makhachev face at UFC 254? Sound off in the comments.
