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As UFC 306 approaches, a contingency plan is in place for the highly anticipated co-main event. Top flyweight contender Manon Fiorot has been officially designated as the backup fighter for the trilogy bout between UFC women’s flyweight champion Alexa Grasso and former titleholder Valentina Shevchenko. This crucial fight is scheduled to take place on September 14 at the Sphere in Las Vegas.
Sources close to the situation confirmed Fiorot’s role as the backup to Damon Martin on Friday. Fiorot’s coach, Aldric Cassata, initially hinted at this opportunity in an interview with Boxemag.com, but the arrangement is now officially set in stone.
Fiorot, 34, is currently ranked as the No. 4 female P4P and holds the No. 2 spot in the UFC women’s flyweight rankings. The French fighter has made an impressive mark in the UFC, boasting a flawless 7-0 record within the organization. Her undefeated streak includes notable victories over top-tier fighters such as Erin Blanchfield, Rose Namajunas, Katlyn Chookagian, Jennifer Maia, and Mayra Bueno Silva.
The upcoming Grasso vs. Shevchenko bout will mark the third installment in their intense rivalry. It all began in March 2023 when Grasso shocked the MMA world by submitting Shevchenko in the fourth round to claim the flyweight title. The two fighters faced off again in September, with Grasso narrowly retaining her belt after a controversial split draw during the inaugural Noche UFC event.
Adding to the drama, Grasso and Shevchenko recently served as opposing coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 32, further fueling their rivalry. The season concludes this Saturday at UFC Vegas 96, where the winners will be determined.
With Fiorot waiting in the wings, UFC 306’s co-main event is well-prepared for any unexpected changes, ensuring that the flyweight division’s top fighters will be ready to step into the spotlight.
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