Thursday night’s Top Rank on ESPN main event between Jose Pedraza and Mikkel LesPierre has been cancelled after LesPierre’s manager, Jose Taveras, tested positive for Covid-19 earlier today.
The lightweight bout featuring Gabriel Flores Jr.-Josec Ruiz has now been elevated to main event status at the MGM Grand Conference Center – Grand Ballroom.
LesPierre said: “My manager, Jose Taveras, tested positive for Covid-19. Due to the rules and regulations set forth by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, I will be unable to fight tonight as scheduled against Jose Pedraza.
“I understand the severity of Covid-19 because I have been working on the front lines of helping treat this virus at Mount Sinai Beth Israel—Petrie Division in Manhattan.
“I am devastated. This was my opportunity to showcase my talent to the world, but everything happens for a reason. This is just another roadblock in my story.
“I apologize to Jose and his team for any inconvenience this caused. He is a great boxer, and I hope we can reschedule the fight as soon as possible.”
Taveras added: “I apologise for the inconvenience this caused. I am not exhibiting any symptoms. I am looking forward to hopefully rescheduling this fight as soon as possible. I am devastated for Mikkel.”
Main photo: Mikey Williams, Top Rank.