Pedraza-LesPierre fight canceled after LesPierre's manager positive COVID-19 test

The junior welterweight boxing match on Top Rank on ESPN between Jose Pedraza and Mikkel LesPierre has been canceled after Josie Taveras, LesPierre's manager, tested positive for COVID-19.

"The bottom line is the manager tested positive for COVID after the weigh-in yesterday," Brad Jacobs, chief operating officer for Top Rank, told ESPN. "He was negative when he [was] tested when he arrived here on the 14th. The protocols were set, it calls for any team member that's been in close contact with the fighter, [if they test positive], the team's got to go."

In light of the cancelation, the junior lightweight fight between Gabe Flores Jr. and Josec Ruiz is now the main event.

"I am devastated," LesPierre said in a statement. "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."

Lou DiBella, LesPierre's promoter, said they are working to possibly reschedule the fight for July but for now, there's nothing concrete. Top Rank's protocol states that anyone who tests positive will not be allowed from participating in the event, along with the fighter's team.

"I apologize for the inconvenience this caused," Tavares said in a statement. "I am not exhibiting any symptoms. I am looking forward to hopefully rescheduling this fight as soon as possible. I am devastated for Mikkel."