Bad news for fans of the UFC’s new women’s flyweight division, and those attending or planning to watch UFC 216. According to a new report by MMA Fighting, the highly anticipated flyweight debut of Paige VanZant against Jessica Eye is off. The UFC has not confirmed the change, and there’s no word on when the contest might be rebooked, or if they’re considering a late-notice change in opponent for Eye.
An injury to Paige VanZant appears to be the reason for the cancellation. VanZant last fought against Michelle Waterson at UFC on Fox 22 last year, where she was submitted in the first round of their main event battle. She has spoken openly of late of how cutting weight was essentially leading her towards an eating disorder. She’s also got a new book on tap, but has stated she’s staying dedicated to the fight business.
Jessica Eye, meanwhile, has lost four straight in the UFC, and five of her last six. Eye (11–6 (1)) was desperately seeking a win at UFC 216, having lost to Bethe Correia most recently at UFC 203.
UFC 216 takes place October 7 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, NV. An interim lightweight title fight between Tony Ferguson and Kevin Lee serves as the main event. Demetrious Johnson will once again try to make history in the co-main event, facing Ray Borg in a fight rescheduled from UFC 215 after Borg fell ill.
