Why Did Irene Aldana Back Out Of August Fight Against Holly Holm?
The stage was set for Irene Aldana to potentially become the next big challenger at bantamweight. Unfortunately, the current coronavirus pandemic had other plans in mind.
On her Instagram, Aldana announced that a positive COVID-19 test is why she had to withdraw from her August 1 bout against Holly Holm. Aldana (12-5) stated she felt symptoms of the virus, but is getting better. She will continue to utilize proper safety measures as she prepares for the proposed October rebooking of her bout.
“We are going through a very complicated world situation, and my country is not the exception,” Aldana stated, via MMA Fighting. “I’m still in recovery. The first days were complicated in terms of symptoms, but I’m much better. You know my professionalism and my interest in a commitment of this size. My enthusiasm and preparation is and will be total.”
Aldana (12-5) is on a two-fight win streak and is 5-1 in her last six. Her last fight was a knockout win over Ketlen Vieira at UFC 245. She is ranked sixth in the UFC’s bantamweight rankings. UFC President Dana White ended up announcing the nixed bout announcement while on Instagram Live with Ronda Rousey.
As a result, the co-main event of Derek Brunson v. Edmen Shahbazyan will now main event the show. The August 1 event will take place from inside the UFC’s APEX Cente in Las Vegas, Nevada.