The 2019 coronavirus (COV-19) outbreak has become a global health concern, and experts are working to learn more about and ultimately contain the virus as it continues to spread.
With the virus having originated in China, other Asian nations are particularly concerned about its impact. For many people, the symptoms have been mild, but the illness has also claimed over 1,800 lives (for comparison, the flu has killed about 14,000 people this season, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics), so countries and privately owned businesses are taking action to try to prevent others from contracting the virus.
Asia-based MMA promotion ONE Championship has now taken a drastic step to protect others from the coronavirus by closing its doors to the public and media for its upcoming King of the Jungle event in Singapore. Only fighters, coaches, and staff will be allowed inside the venue, and fans who purchased tickets for the February 28 event will be refunded.
In a statement, ONE chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong said, “In light of the coronavirus situation in Singapore, I have made the decision to convert ONE: KING OF THE JUNGLE on February 28 into a closed event for broadcast only. The Singapore Indoor Stadium will not be open to the general public.
“The event will now proceed behind closed doors. All scheduled live TV and digital platform streams across 150+ countries around the world will continue as planned. More than ever, the world needs hope and strength right now. Our heroes are prepared to inspire you with the greatest performances of their lives.
“At ONE Championship, our mission since Day 1 has been to unleash real-life superheroes who ignite the world with hope, strength, dreams, and inspiration. I am incredibly proud of our athletes, especially those in Singapore who – despite all that is going on – have chosen to march forward and show the world what we can do. Let us unite as a country and show strength as a continent to conquer the coronavirus.”
The main event of King of the Jungle will be an Atomweight Kickboxing World Title match between current champion Stamp Fairtex and Janet Todd. The event can be viewed on the ONE Super App.
