In an unexpected move the UFC has released former flyweight title challenger Taila Santos.
Roster Tracker was the first to break the news, and was later confirmed by MMA Fighting.
Santos (19-3) came into the UFC following a decision victory at Dana White’s Contender Series Brazil Season 1.
That turned into a 4-3 run in the promotion including coming close to dethroning former flyweight queen Valentina Shevchenko. The result was questioned by fans and fighters alike who felt Santos had done enough to become the champion.
The split-decision loss to the former champion left Santos to face the next possible challenger in Erin Blanchfield.
Her run is highlighted by victories over Molly McCann, Gillian Robertson, Roxanne Modafferi and Joanne Wood in just over a year of action
Prior to her release she dropped two in a row including the title fight loss to Shevchenko and a dropping a decision to Blanchfield.
Even with the losses Santos was considered to be a top flyweight close to a title shot. With the emergence of Alexa Grasso as champion the door was open.
It’ll be interesting to see where Santos ends up after this.
No word as to the reason for the release as of this post.
