UFC 281: Erin Blanchfield is the fighter to watch

Erin Blanchfield is looking to make it seven straight wins at UFC 281.

Erin “Cold Blooded” Blanchfield is going for seven straight wins in the city where she trains. Blanchfield takes on “Meatball” Molly McCann, on a winning streak of her own, in a flyweight bout, and something’s gotta give when they meet in the octagon Saturday night.

Erin Blanchfield turned pro in 2018, bouncing in between promotions Cage Fury FC and Invicta FC before joining the UFC. Blanchfield (9-1) compiled a 6-1 record beating UFC vets Kay Hansen, Victoria Leonardo, and Brogan Walker, her lone loss coming by split decision to current UFC flyweight Tracy Cortez. Since debuting with the UFC last year, Blanchfield has beaten Sarah Alpar, Miranda Maverick, and most recently JJ Aldrich by submission in June.

Two of the most exciting flyweights in the division will collide at UFC 281

Erin Blanchfield faces the toughest test of her young career in Molly McCann. McCann (13-4) has been one of the most-talked-about flyweights in the last year. After starting her UFC career 3-3, McCann has reeled off three straight, the last two coming by way of spinning back elbow. McCann has dispatched Ji Yeon Kim, Luana Carolina, and most recently Hannah Goldy in the first round. Though they are the same size, Blanchfield holds a 6″ reach advantage that has her as a heavy betting favorite coming into the fight.

The 23-year-old BJJ black belt from New Jersey is one of the most promising prospects in the sport and is looking to put a stop to McCann’s win streak and climb the rankings. With a crowded division, Blanchfield can make some noise with a win this weekend and get her name on the radar for title contention going into 2023.

UFC 281: Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira takes place on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022, live from Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Follow along with FanSided MMA, who is on-site, for all your news and highlights.