Foreign-based UFC fighters traveling to the United States starting next month face more stringent COVID-19 vaccine requirements.

The new policy enacted includes athletes crossing into the United States from Canada or Mexico and via cross-ocean ports of entry.

Starting Nov. 8, all international visitors must be fully vaccinated and have proof of one of seven WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines. The United States will also require a negative COVID-19 test originating from a test taken within 72 hours of planned travel.

MMAJunkie reported Tuesday the UFC has already made the latest information available to any fighters that could be impacted. UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell informed multiple teams Tuesday, per the report.

UFC informs international fighters about new vaccine mandates for travel to the US

UFC President Dana White remains adamant that UFC will not require fighters or employees to be vaccinated.

In the memo sent from the organization on Tuesday, that idea was again repeated.

“To be clear, this is NOT a UFC policy,” the memo reads. “UFC is not requiring you to get vaccinated. We are simply communicating the new guidelines recently announced by the U.S. government.”

In the memo, UFC admits to not knowing the impact for green card holders or permanent United States residents.

“This policy takes effect on November 8, leaving very little time to make arrangements if you are fighting on a UFC card in November,” the memo reads. “If you choose to travel to the U.S. before the new policy takes effect, you will need a waiver if you are traveling from one of the restricted countries.”

–Field Level Media