Michael Chiesa Says He’s Not Planning To Fight Until Coronavirus Pandemic Subsides

The coronavirus pandemic has affected both MMA fighters and the promotions they work for in a multitude of ways over the last few months.

One of the fighters who has been affected by the pandemic is UFC fighter Michael Chiesa, who says he doesn’t plan on fighting until the pandemic subsides.

Chiesa posted the following on Instagram:

 

 

 

 

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“When are you going to fight again?” • That’s a question many of us fighters are being asked regularly. On the heels of my biggest win to date, there is nothing I want more than to get back in the octagon and compete. Fighting in an empty arena feels almost advantageous to me after the time I spent on TUF. Competing in that type of environment is not what I’m worried about. It’s the preparation that’s holding me back. Gyms are closed, training partners are scarce, and coaches/teammates are doing what’s best to protect the heath of their family. All of which are things I empathize with 110%. On top of that, there’s other problems behind the scenes that are better left unsaid. I know many fighters are experiencing the same challenges in trying to put together a camp right now. There’s some people that have enough resources to make it happen right now but unfortunately, I’m not one of those people. • Ultimately I have two choices. One is keep doing what I can to stay fit and wait for restrictions to lift. The other is to make some choices and moves to get me in a position where I can be confident I can prepare for a fight. My stance on who I fight next will remain the same, it has to be someone ranked ahead of me. Out of respect for that short list of guys and the wishes of my family, I’m not showing up unless I can be at my absolute best. • All I can say is, I hope to get back in there sooner than later and I am proactively searching for solutions on my own. I hope everyone out there is staying safe, and staying healthy. God bless. • #visionquest #campchiesa

A post shared by Michael Chiesa (@mikemav22) on Apr 27, 2020 at 1:26pm PDT

If Chiesa doesn’t compete again until the pandemic goes away, it would mean the win over former UFC Lightweight Champion Rafael Dos Anjos at UFC Fight Night Raleigh would serve as his final professional MMA fight for the time being.