Erin Blanchfield Eyes Manon Fiorot Showdown, Hints at Interim Title

UFC flyweight contender Erin Blanchfield eagerly anticipates her next octagon challenge, with an eye on a potential clash against fellow rising star Manon Fiorot, amid the uncertainty surrounding the division's title picture.

Blanchfield, boasting a remarkable record of 12-1, has positioned herself as a top contender in the UFC's flyweight division, patiently awaiting her shot at championship contention. With reigning champion Alexa Grasso and former titleholder Valentina Shevchenko sidelined due to injuries, Blanchfield senses a significant showdown against Fiorot could be on the horizon.

Addressing the situation during an online live stream for HUMBL, Blanchfield expressed her readiness for the next challenge:

"Whether it’s an interim or not, I’ll beat (Fiorot), and then I should definitely get a title next."

While UFC President Dana White has hinted at the Grasso vs. Shevchenko matchup, no official timeline has been disclosed for their return. Both fighters underwent hand surgeries, further prolonging their absence from the octagon.

In the wake of potential delays in the championship bout, Blanchfield remains poised and prepared for an interim title opportunity, indicating her interest in an interim championship contest if Grasso and Shevchenko's recovery extends further.

"If it ends up being longer, they’d have me and Manon fight for an interim," Blanchfield mentioned, hinting at the possibility of a title eliminator bout to determine the division's interim champion.

Having recently overcome a slight nasal fracture suffered in a hard-fought victory over Taila Santos, Blanchfield stands ready for her next challenge, underscoring her eagerness to contend for the flyweight title, interim or not.

As the flyweight division awaits clarity regarding the return of its champions, the potential showdown between Blanchfield and Fiorot looms large, with both athletes eager to cement their positions as rightful contenders and potentially seize an interim championship opportunity in the absence of the division's reigning titleholders.