The co-main event of UFC 306 has a backup plan in place. Manon Fiorot, a prominent contender in the flyweight division, will serve as the backup fighter for the anticipated matchup between UFC women’s flyweight champion Alexa Grasso and former champion Valentina Shevchenko on September 14th at the Sphere in Las Vegas. Sources close to the situation have verified this information to MMA Fighting’s Damon Martin on Friday.
Fiorot’s coach, Aldric Cassata, initially disclosed Fiorot’s opportunity to Boxemag.com, and it is now officially confirmed. At 34 years old, Fiorot holds the No. 3 ranking among female flyweights globally and is ranked as the No. 4 women’s pound-for-pound fighter by MMA Fighting. She boasts an impressive 7-0 record in the UFC, with victories over notable opponents including Erin Blanchfield, Rose Namajunas, Katlyn Cerminara, Jennifer Maia, and Mayra Bueno Silva.
Grasso and Shevchenko are scheduled for their third encounter in a rivalry that commenced in March 2023 when Grasso secured an unexpected victory over Shevchenko. Their rematch last September concluded in a contentious split draw at the inaugural Noche UFC event. The two also served as coaches on the recent season of The Ultimate Fighter 32, with the winners set to be determined this Saturday at UFC Vegas 96.
