Erin Blanchfield dismisses Manon Fiorot’s criticism: ‘I definitely have more wins against better opponents than she does’

Erin Blanchfield, the rising star in the UFC flyweight division, isn’t letting criticism from fellow fighter Manon Fiorot get under her skin. As she gears up for her fight against Rose Namajunas at UFC Paris, Blanchfield remains unfazed by Fiorot’s comments about her recent victory over Taila Santos in UFC Singapore.

Fiorot didn’t hold back during the UFC Paris media day, questioning the level of competition Blanchfield had faced thus far. She stated that Blanchfield hadn’t really taken on opponents at a high level, implying that the fight against Santos exposed her true abilities. Fiorot’s critique wasn’t merely a jab at Blanchfield; it was a strategic move to assert herself as a potential contender for the title shot. She confidently declared that a strong performance on her part, considering Blanchfield’s and Santos’ performances, would solidify her position as the next in line for the championship belt.

Blanchfield, however, chose the diplomatic route in response. While she remained gracious, she stood her ground, continuing to call for a title shot against the winner of the forthcoming bout between Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko. Blanchfield made it clear that even if Fiorot were to triumph over Namajunas, she still believed her resume outweighed Fiorot’s in terms of quality wins against formidable opponents in the division.

In a show of respect, Blanchfield acknowledged Fiorot’s skills as a solid fighter with a strong striking game, although she hinted at Fiorot’s potential weakness on the ground. Blanchfield confidently asserted that her own wins had come against tougher opponents, implying that she was more deserving of the title shot.

Interestingly, Blanchfield and Fiorot share similar undefeated records in the UFC, with Blanchfield boasting a 6-0 record and Fiorot holding a 5-0 record with a couple of knockouts. Despite their parallel trajectories, the UFC landscape is complex, and their records alone won’t guarantee an immediate title opportunity.

The outcome of the Grasso vs. Shevchenko rematch looms large as a determining factor in the path forward for both Blanchfield and Fiorot. Whether it’s due to injuries, a disputed result, or an unexpected finish, the title picture could become clouded, potentially necessitating more time before a decisive contender emerges.

Blanchfield, looking ahead and weighing different scenarios, offered an intriguing proposal. She suggested that if Fiorot managed to defeat Namajunas and secure her victory while the Grasso vs. Shevchenko trilogy played out, she would be open to a bout against Fiorot to establish the true number one contender.

Blanchfield’s confidence shines through as she navigates the uncertainty of her career trajectory. She acknowledges the multiple options on the table, whether it’s fighting the winner of Grasso vs. Shevchenko or facing the victor of the Fiorot vs. Namajunas clash. She acknowledges that the landscape is dynamic and unpredictable, but her ultimate goal remains unwavering – to claim the championship belt, no matter the path she takes to get there.

In her unwavering determination, Blanchfield understands that her journey might require additional fights before a title shot becomes reality. She is prepared to face every challenge head-on, confident in her ability to emerge victorious, whether it’s before or after obtaining the coveted title. Blanchfield’s message is clear: she’s ready to conquer any opponent and seize the title, all in due time.

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More about UFC Flyweight Contenders

• Erin Blanchfield’s UFC Profile
• Manon Fiorot’s UFC Profile
• UFC Flyweight Division Overview
• UFC Paris Event Details
• Grasso vs. Shevchenko Rematch Preview
• Taila Santos’ UFC Profile
• Rose Namajunas’ UFC Profile