Analysis: What’s next for flyweight contender Erin Blanchfield?

Erin Blanchfield. Photo via Instagram (@blanchfield_mma)

With this past weekend’s massive win over Jessica Andrade, flyweight Erin Blanchfield went from a promising prospect to a legit title contender in the division.

After standing and banging with feared striker Andrade, the young American took the fight to the ground where she submitted her Brazilian opponent, seemingly without any trouble. It was nothing but a statement performance and it’s clear Blanchfield is ready to fight at the very top of the weight class.

Let’s take a closer look at the 23-year-old’s possible next opponents!

Valentina Schevchenko

Valentina Shevchenko. Photo: Jason Silva – USA TODAY Sports

Dominant champion Valentina Shevchenko will face Alexa Grasso at UFC 285 on March 4.

Shevchenko is a massive betting favorite going into the fight, and if the seasoned champion wins, a fight against Blanchfield could materialize.

“I would definitely prefer Shevchenko,” Blanchfield said about the upcoming title fight. “I think she beats Grasso. Grasso is a tough fighter but I want to be the one to take that title from Shevchenko.”

Showing proof of her improved striking, the submission specialist Blanchfield could quite possibly be the toughest matchup for the well-rounded veteran.

Alexa Grasso

Photo via Instagram (@alexa_grasso)

Winning or losing the title bout at UFC 285, Alexa Grasso could be Blanchfield’s next opponent.

Since moving up to flyweight, the 29-year-old Mexican is undefeated, with four wins against top competition.

Known for her slick boxing and good movement, the quick and tough Grasso would be an interesting matchup for Blanchfield, who looked very good against striker Jessica Andrade.

Manon Fiorot

Manon Fiorot. Photo via Instagram (@manonfiorot_mma)

No. 1 ranked Manon Fiorot has no fight booked at the moment, and could quite possibly be next for Erin Blanchfield.

The tall striker uses her reach excellently which potentially could be a problem for the shorter Blanchfield, however, it’s fair to assume that the latter would have the advantage on the mat.

Fiorot is undefeated in the UFC, with five straight wins since her promotional debut back in January 2021, and comes from a decision win against Katlyn Chookagian in October.

Taila Santos

Photo via Instagram (@tailasantos.ufc)

No. 1 ranked Taila Santos gave Valentina Schevchenko her toughest title defense to date at UFC 275 last June, but eventually lost a gruelling five-rounder via a debated split decision.

The physically strong former Muay Thai fighter has a solid ground game and is for sure a problem for anyone in the flyweight division.

Santos was scheduled to face Blanchfield on February 18, but dropped out of the fight after her cornermen were denied visas into the United States. A rebooked fight could very well be next!

This is Erin Blanchfield

Erin Blanchfield. Photo via Instagram: (@blanchfield_mma)

• Age: 23
• Record: 11-1
• UFC record: 5-0
• Weight: 125 lb (57 kg)
• Height: 5 ft 4 in (163 cm)
• Reach: 68 in (173 cm)
• Post-fight bonuses: 1

Read more: UFC Vegas 69 results: Blanchfield submits former champion in the second round

Subscribe to Frontkick.online on YouTube for the best MMA and Muay Thai videos in Scandinavia!