Worthy being 'smarter' with UFC 249 weight cut due to coronavirus threat

Lightweight Khama Worthy isn't taking any chances with his weight cut ahead of UFC 249 amid the threat of the coronavirus.

"With this coronavirus, you don't want to be cutting like 15 pounds or 10 pounds the day before," Worthy told theScore. "Because it attacks your immune system. You want your body to be as strong as possible. So, my coach has me getting a little smarter about my weight cut. My weight isn't a problem (so) as long as I take things seriously, I should be good."

Worthy (15-6) will face Michael Johnson next Saturday after Ottman Azaitar was unable to leave Germany due to travel restrictions. The 33-year-old Worthy recognizes the opportunity at hand, as Johnson boasts wins over Tony Ferguson and Dustin Poirier.

"It's definitely a step up in competition and a great opportunity also to just leapfrog (in the division)," Worthy explained. "I know I can go all three rounds. I know I can out-grapple him, I know my jiu-jitsu should be better. I'm just prepared to keep the pace super high and meet him in the center of the Octagon and make him fight."

UFC 249 is set for April 18 at an undisclosed location. Reports suggest the event could take place on tribal land in California.