In a pivotal showdown between two highly ranked fighters, Taila Santos is set to face Erin Blanchfield on the main card of UFC Fight Night 225.
In a pivotal showdown between two highly ranked fighters, Taila Santos is set to face Erin Blanchfield on the main card of UFC Fight Night 225. Ranked as the No. 4 fighter in the women’s flyweight division. Santos is gearing up to take on the No. 3 ranked Blanchfield. While Santos acknowledges Blanchfield’s skills, she takes issue with the amount of hype surrounding her opponent.
Santos is a former women’s flyweight title challenger. She is no stranger to facing top-tier opponents. She is coming off a narrow split decision loss to former champion Valentina Shevchenko in June 2022. A result that many believed should have gone in her favor. Despite her impressive record and experience against elite fighters. Santos finds herself frustrated by the fact that Blanchfield is ranked ahead of her, especially given that this will be Blanchfield’s first bout against an elite member of the division.
One point of contention between the fighters is Blanchfield’s declaration that she is the better grappler. Santos raised an eyebrow when informed of Blanchfield’s claim and made it clear that she is not backing down. While Blanchfield may be known for her ground game. Santos is confident in her own abilities and is ready to prove herself in all aspects of the fight.
Santos hails from a muay Thai background and feels comfortable in striking exchanges as well as on the ground. She acknowledges Blanchfield’s skills but believes that the hype surrounding her may be premature. Santos views herself as a reality rather than a promise, highlighting her experience and proven track record.
The upcoming bout with Blanchfield is an opportunity for Santos to derail the hype train and showcase her own capabilities. She is motivated by the chance to prove that she is not just a promising fighter but a legitimate threat in the division. Santos is determined to demonstrate that she is more than capable of handling the challenges that Blanchfield presents.
Looking ahead, Santos has her sights set on a title shot. She believes that a victory against Blanchfield could earn her a shot at the winner of the rematch between champion Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko scheduled for September 16. While both opponents pose unique challenges, Santos expressed a preference for facing Shevchenko once again. She views Shevchenko as a more dangerous opponent than Grasso. Emphasizing her technical prowess and overall skill set.
With the stage set for an intriguing showdown between Santos and Blanchfield. Fans can anticipate a battle that will not only determine the pecking order in the women’s flyweight division but also challenge the perceptions of hype and reality. Santos is eager to prove herself on the main stage and show that her experience and skills make her a force to be reckoned with in the division.
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