Mexican Olympian and three-time world champion Abner Mares revealed that he is recovering from COVID-19, after having visiting a hospital near his residence in California, as reported by the fighter himself through his social networks, thanking the support from fans and members of his boxing family.

Mares, who has currently joined the Showtime Boxing broadcast team in anticipation of a new date to return to the ring, is 35 years old and has a professional record of 31-3-1 with 15 knockouts.

This past Saturday night, Mares was replaced on the Showtime broadcast by Raul Marquez.

“Thank you to all my fans, friends and family who have sent me positive messages that really mean a lot. I am overwhelmed with so much love that they have sent me. COVID has really affected me, but we are still in the fight. I felt bad over the weekend, but [Tuesday] was the worst day with chest pain and a lack of oxygen, which is why I made the post from the hospital, but today I am quarantined in my room from home. My wife and my daughters tested negative thanks to God," Mares said.

Mares captured world titles at bantamweight, super bantamweight and featherweight.

While he hasn't officially called time on his career, and continues to mention a potential return, Mares has been out of the ring for over two years and counting.  

"Mares' most recent fight was in June 2018, when he lost a twelve round unanimous decision in a rematch with California rival Leo Santa Cruz, who also won their first encounter in 2015.