Boxing
Eddie Hearn 'gutted' to miss Joshua Buatsi vs. Marko Calic as he self-isolates with COVID-19
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn addressed the boxing community on Friday as he confirmed he is now in self-isolation following a positive COVID-19 test the day before.
Hearn, usually at each live Matchroom production, left the Milton Keynes "bubble", where a card takes place on Oct. 4, headlined by Joshua Buatsi vs. Marko Calic, upon receiving his test results back.
He will not be appearing on fight night on Sunday and was replaced for final press conference duties by Sky Sports' Head of Boxing, Adam Smith.
However, before the match-by-match presser began, a pre-recorded message from a quarantined Hearn was played.
"As you know, yesterday I arrived and took my COVID-19 test," Hearn said in the recoridng. "I waited for the results, and they came back positive. Now, I’m in this room for the next 10 days.
"I’m more worried about [being stuck in self-isolation] than I am about the virus, to be honest with you!
"I’m gutted I can’t be there at the show. I live and breathe it. I’m going to have to watch it from home, but it’s going to be a great card. What a card we’ve got. As always we’re live on Sky Sports in the U.K and on DAZN in the U.S.
"I wanted to bring you Sunday boxing because with no crowds, I feel it’s a great spot for live sports. Sunday night, in your lounge. Crank it up. ...
"I’m locked in here for the next 10 days but I miss you all. Enjoy the show, I’ll be watching with eagle eyes. Everyone stay safe."
No other positive tests came back from the fighters and staff who entered the bubble this week.
The Joshua Buatsi vs. Marko Calic card takes place on Sunday Oct. 4, live on Sky Sports in the U.K. and DAZN in the U.S.
