Manager: Masvidal 'absolutely willing' to take Usman fight on short notice

Jorge Masvidal remains ready for a title shot against Kamaru Usman.

Following news that Gilbert Burns was forced to drop out of the UFC 251 main event due to a positive coronavirus test, Masvidal's manager told ESPN's Ariel Helwani he's "absolutely willing" to step in on a week's notice.

Usman is reportedly no longer scheduled to fly to Abu Dhabi as a result of the fight being called off, but it's unclear whether a new opponent emerging could change those plans.

One of the UFC's most prominent stars coming off a win over Nate Diaz for the "BMF" belt, Masvidal had originally been slated to challenge Usman for the welterweight title. Contract negotiations grew contentious, though, and the fight was eventually offered to Burns.

Masvidal wasn't the only big name floating interest to replace Burns, as Colby Covington tweeted a picture of the first meeting between he and Usman in an apparent bid for the rematch.

UFC 251, scheduled for July 11, will mark the first event held at the promotion's new Fight Island facility on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. A featherweight title bout between Max Hollaway and Alexander Volkanovski is now set to serve as the main event.