Rafael dos Anjos was set to make his return to the lightweight division at UFC 254. However, it appears the COVID-19 virus has thrown a wrench in the UFC’s plans once again. The UFC was one of the first if not the first sport to return to live-action. This, however, has posed a different set of challenges to the promotion. Multiple fighters have tested positive for the virus, which has meant fights getting canceled at the last minute. 

Dos Anjos was set to face Islam Makhachev at UFC 254. However, he took to Twitter to confirm that he would not be fighting at the event as he had tested positive for COVID-19.

Read: Khabib Nurmagomedov says UFC 254 is ‘full of killers’

Rafael dos Anjos’ lightweight return set to be delayed

Dos Anjos shared his statement on Twitter earlier today. It read, “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….. 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.”

Dos Anjos was to return to lightweight following an eight-fight stint at welterweight, where he held a 4-4 record. His last outing was a unanimous decision defeat to Michael Chiesa earlier this year.

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In Islam Makhachev, he was set to take on one of the biggest threats in the lightweight division. Islam is unbeaten in his last six fights. With  Dos Anjos ruled out, the Russian fighter will look to secure another fight for the UFC 254 card. Who would you like to see replace Dos Anjos and face an exciting fighter in Islam Makhachev?