Bellator MMA Cancels Three May Events Amid Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns

Due to the ongoing safety concerns surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as current federal, state and local government mandates, Bellator MMA officials today have announced that three upcoming live events scheduled for May have been postponed. pic.twitter.com/IzfcGLXnWu

— BellatorMMA (@BellatorMMA) March 31, 2020

The coronavirus continues to take its toll on the fight world, as Bellator MMA has canceled three fight cards scheduled for May.

Bellator announced the cancellations in a release on Monday. The California-based promotion previously canceled Bellator 241, slated for March 13, on the day of the event after initially planning to go forward with the card in an empty venue at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

Bellator 242 at the SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., on May 9; Bellator London at the SSE Arena in London on May 16 and Bellator 243 at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calf., will now follow suit due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Due to the ongoing safety concerns surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as current federal, state and local government mandates, Bellator MMA officials today have announced that three upcoming live events scheduled for May have been postponed,” a statement read.

“The organization will continue to monitor the situation closely and fully intends to reschedule the events as soon as possible. As always, the health and safety of our athletes, fans, partners and staff remains our top priority. We appreciate the understanding and patience of everyone involved during this incredibly difficult time.”

Bellator 242 was to be headlined by a light heavyweight championship clash between Ryan Bader and Vadim Nemkov and also included a middleweight title tilt between Gegard Mousasi and Douglas Lima. Bellator London was topped by a showdown pitting James Gallagher against Callum Ellenor, while the Bellator 243 feature bout saw Liz Carmouche making her promotional debut against Mandy Bohm.

Refunds will be available to ticketholders for the events at their respective points of purchase.

As it currently stands, Bellator 244 on June 6 in Chicago is the promotion’s next scheduled event. That card is expected to be headlined by a lightweight rematch between Michael Chandler and Benson Henderson.