Bellator MMA Announces Postponement of Bellator 244 in Chicago on June 9

Bellator MMA has officially postponed the next upcoming event on its itinerary.

The promotion announced Tuesday that Bellator 244 has been postponed “due to the ongoing safety concerns surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as current federal, state and local government mandates.” The event was supposed to take place at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago on June 6.

“The organization will continue to monitor the situation closely and fully intends to reschedule the event as soon as possible,” read a statement from the promotion. “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 244 was scheduled to be headlined by a lightweight rematch between former champion Michael Chandler and UFC veteran Benson Henderson. It was also expected to feature a featherweight grand prix semifinal showdown pitting A.J. McKee against Darrion Caldwell.

In late March, Bellator announced the cancellation of all three of its scheduled May events due to the pandemic. Prior to that, the California-based promotion scrapped Bellator 241, slated for March 13, on the day of the event after initially planning to go forward with the card at an empty venue at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.