UFC bolsters coronavirus testing, safety protocols ahead of Vegas return

The UFC is increasing its safety protocols ahead of its return to Las Vegas amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

On Monday, MMA Junkie's Nolan King reported on new testing procedures for fighters and cornermen ahead of this weekend's show. Individuals will be tested upon arrivals at hotels, and they will then have to self-isolate with no outside contact until they receive test results. 

Those who test negative are permitted to continue pre-fight preparations.  Anybody who tests positive for the coronavirus must wait for direct instructions from UFC officials. 

Athletes and corners must follow the same testing and self-isolating measures after Friday weigh-ins to limit exposure. They will be required to remain isolated until they depart to the UFC Apex arena, the home of Saturday's event. 

The UFC Performance Institute is closed to all competitors during fight week. 

UFC boss Dana White and the promotion came under intense scrutiny after the New York Times reported several individuals violated the organization's written safety protocols during the UFC 249 show at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville earlier this month. 

White responded to that story by suggesting media outlets were attempting to "sabotage" the promotion running live cards during the virus outbreak. 

Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza was pulled from UFC 249 after he and two cornermen tested positive while in Florida. They were the only three UFC personnel directly involved with that card who tested positive.