Erin Blanchfield faced a disappointing night at UFC Atlantic City, suffering a defeat against Manon Fiorot.
Blanchfield, previously considered a potential future champion at 125 pounds, acknowledged the setback but remains focused on improvement.
The rising flyweight contender took to social media to address the loss, but her message conveyed a determined spirit.
“Rough night, I’ll be back better,” Blanchfield wrote on Instagram.
Blanchfield had been on a tear leading up to UFC Atlantic City, racking up six wins in the UFC. This included victories over title hopeful Taila Santos and former champion Jessica Andrade.
Fiorot landed sharp strikes early, briefly getting caught in a guillotine choke during a takedown attempt. However, she escaped and dominated the rest of the round on the feet.
The second round followed a similar pattern. Blanchfield struggled to get Fiorot to the ground and was countered effectively with punches and kicks.
Fiorot’s takedown defense continued to shine in round three, shutting down Blanchfield’s wrestling attempts. Fiorot scored with counterpunches while circling away from Blanchfield’s forward charges.
Despite needing a finish in the final round, Blanchfield’s aggressiveness wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit. Fiorot weathered the storm and cruised to a clear-cut decision win.
Fiorot remained undefeated in the UFC with her win, extending her record to 7-0. This dominant performance positions her as a strong contender for the flyweight title, especially after the upcoming trilogy fight between Valentina Shevchenko and Alexa Grasso settles the championship picture later this year.
In a shocking turn of events at UFC 285, Grasso pulled off a major upset, defeating Shevchenko to claim the flyweight title.
Fiorot said doesn’t care who holds the belt – Shevchenko or Grasso – she’s ready to fight for the flyweight championship.
“I’m ready. The flyweight title is what I’m after. Whoever wins between Shevchenko and Grasso, I’ll be waiting.” Fiorot said.
