In a highly-anticipated clash that carries significant implications for the women’s flyweight title picture, Taila Santos and Erin Blanchfield are finally set to square off at UFC Singapore on August 26.
Santos, ranked at #3, has been absent from the Octagon for over a year since her title challenge at UFC 275 in Singapore. Despite a strong performance that many felt was deserving of victory, she fell short of claiming the championship. Unfortunately, an immediate rematch eluded her, and instead, she was slated to face rising star Erin Blanchfield in February.
However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Santos was forced to withdraw from the bout on short notice as her cornermen were unable to secure visas for the United States. This setback left Santos sidelined for an extended period.
Now, the Brazilian fighter is eager to step back into the cage and take on Blanchfield, and interestingly, the fight will take place in the very same venue where Santos suffered her previous defeat.
Santos and Blanchfield Set Their Sights on Flyweight Title Opportunity
Taila Santos will fight Erin Blanchfield at #UFCSingapore on August 26th. (first rep. Freak MMA IG) #UFC #MMA #UFCESPN #UFC2023 pic.twitter.com/UnX6fFmJbL
— Marcel Dorff 🇳🇱🇮🇩 (@BigMarcel24) June 23, 2023
Marcel Dorff of Eurosport Nederland confirmed the rescheduled matchup, which was initially reported by @freak.mma on Instagram. Fans can expect an electrifying showdown between Santos and Blanchfield in the “Garden City.”
Both fighters will have their eyes on securing a future title shot in the flyweight division. Santos, prior to her unsuccessful bid against Valentina Shevchenko, recorded four consecutive victories, including a notable submission win over Joanne Wood. Her impressive performance earned her the Performance of the Night bonus.
Meanwhile, Blanchfield has been unstoppable since joining the UFC. With triumphs over Sarah Alpar, Miranda Maverick, JJ Aldrich, and Molly McCann, she climbed to the #4 spot in the flyweight rankings. Her most significant victory came against former strawweight champion Jéssica Andrade in a main event clash at UFC Vegas 69, where she secured a second-round submission win.
Although Blanchfield recently expressed her interest in competing for the vacant bantamweight title following Amanda Nunes’ retirement, she remains focused on the flyweight belt for now.
Fans can expect an intense battle between Santos and Blanchfield as they aim to stake their claims for a shot at the flyweight title. The UFC Singapore event promises to deliver a memorable night of action for mixed martial arts enthusiasts.
