Paige VanZant’s stop-start UFC career has hit another road bump.
The injury-prone UFC flyweight has competed just three times dating back to the tail end of 2016 owing to a series of health issues which have curtailed her recent appearances in the octagon. It had been hoped by VanZant’s camp that an upcoming fight with Amanda Ribas scheduled for March 14th in the Brasilia would mark a return to active, frequent competition but those hopes appear to have been dashed as the 25-year-old has once again landed on the injury list.
VanZant has suffered a litany of ailments in recent times. She has broken her arm, which required more than one surgery, as well as citing back issues, a herniated disc, a sinus infection, double ear infection and more among the various complaints she has suffered.
A report via Combate states that the reason for this withdrawal is due to another arm injury.
Headed for warmer weather! ☀️👊@RandaMMA steps in to face @AmandaRibasUFC at #UFCBrasilia! pic.twitter.com/zkJvvMZmKT
— UFC Canada (@UFC_CA) January 24, 2020
VanZant had reportedly requested that the fight be delayed by a month but instead the UFC have opted to keep the bout intact and draft in Randa Markos to face Ribas.
The Sports Illustrated swimsuit model last fought in January 2019 where she defeated Rachael Ostovich by armbar submission. Ribas, meanwhile, has won three straight, a run which includes her becoming the first woman to beat Mackenzie Dern in mixed martial arts competition.
Markos last competed in October where she won a split decision against Ashley Yoder.
