[autotag]Randa Markos[/autotag] had quite a fight week experience.
With the majority of sports and other MMA organizations canceling their events, the UFC received heavy criticism for going ahead with the UFC on ESPN+ 28 card in Brasilia, Brazil, this past Saturday during the global coronavirus pandemic.
The fighters on the card, with many flying in from other continents, went through an emotional whirlwind with the danger and uncertainty surrounding the event.
Markos, who flew in from Canada, faced Amanda Ribas at the behind-closed-doors event that was limited to cornermen, judges referees and a few UFC staff members.
It certainly wasn’t a typical week for Markos, who said the lead-up to the fight was turbulent.
“I didn’t have any fear until there was threats of canceling the event,” Markos told MMA Junkie. “I realized that things were getting very serious – lots of precautions.
“We’re set forward like no one was allowed to attend the event – only 100 people were allowed in the venue at a time. We had to warm up at the hotel until it was go time. Then we were transported to the venue and able to get ready an hour before – right when the fight before you was over. We were rushed in to fight, then rushed back to the hotel after the fight was over.”
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So far, no coronavirus-related health issues stemming from the event have been reported. But when Markos made her trip back home, she said she didn’t feel well and was surprised nobody would test her.
“Just made it home. Stopped by the coronavirus testing center and they wouldn’t test me. Long flights with a lot of people, not feeling great and I’m not a risk? Okay I guess I’ll be home for two weeks.”
Just made it home. Stopped by the coronavirus testing center and they wouldn't test me. Long flights with a lot of people, not feeling great and I'm not a risk? Okay I guess I'll be home for two weeks
— Randa Markos (@randamma) March 17, 2020
So Markos took matters into her own hands by self-isolating. She said she hasn’t been hit with any other symptoms.
“My condition has not gotten worse,” Markos said. “I don’t believe I have the virus, but I have isolated myself as I was told. But I can’t even get an antibiotic. I’m just trying to stay hydrated and monitor myself.”
The UFC eventually was forced to postpone its next three events: UFC on ESPN+ 29 in London; UFC on ESPN 8 in Columbus, Ohio; and UFC on ESPN+ 30 in Portland, Ore.
Having gone through the experience of competing this past weekend, Markos commended the UFC for finally giving in.
“I think our health is more important right now and the UFC is right to postpone events until things get better,” Markos said.
Although things didn’t go her way against Ribas with a unanimous decision loss, Markos has no regrets.
“Ribas is a tough opponent. I’m not happy with how I did, but besides that I’m happy to be a part of this event,” Markos said. “I don’t think anyone was expecting things to get this bad, but it is what it is and we just need to be smart about it. Being in front of an empty crowd felt like ‘Ultimate Fighter’ days. It was awkward, but nothing I haven’t experienced before.”
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