Megan Anderson pulling out of UFC 214 is further proof that the MMA Gods despise the UFC women’s featherweight division.
Invicta champion Megan Anderson (8-2) was set to fight Cristiane ‘Cyborg’ Justino (17-1-1NC) at UFC 214 for the women’s featherweight strap. Unfortunately, the Aussie has been forced to withdraw from the bout due to personal reasons.
Cyborg will still be fighting for the belt on the card, but she will instead face 36-year-old Invicta bantamweight queen Tonya Evinger (19-5). This will mark the third time knockout monster Cyborg will take on a natural bantamweight in her UFC tenure.
The Brazilian superstar began her UFC career by starching Leslie Smith before annihilating Lina Landsberg in her sophomore bout. Although Cyborg was dominant in both 140 lb catchweight contests, she struggled to make weight both times.
Anderson, who was one of the few fighters to actually call for a fight against Cyborg, released a statement on Twitter confirming ‘pressing personal issues’ out of her control were the reason behind the shock withdrawal.
— Megan Anderson (@MeganAnderson) June 28, 2017
The UFC’s female 145 lb division is only half a year old, but so far it has suffered a tumultuous upbringing.
Inaugural champion Germaine de Randamie won her title under highly contentious circumstances at UFC 208 in February. Her unanimous decision victory over Holly Holm was mired in controversy as the victor landed several illegal shots between rounds that went unpunished.
De Randamie was eventually stripped of the belt for refusing to accept a title defence against Cyborg.
It's about bloody time #UFC214 https://t.co/YBeeixctW1
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) June 19, 2017
With a month to go until UFC 214, the promotion can’t really afford anything else to happen to this fight. At least they’ll find solace in the knowledge that they have two reliable stars in the main event.
Wait, who’s headlining again? Daniel Cormier vs Jon Jones?!?!
It’s going to be a nervy few weeks.
