UFC 228’s co-main event is in doubt after Nicco Montano was transported to hospital.
Nicco Montano was set for her first defence of the UFC women’s flyweight belt in UFC 228’s co-headliner.
Montano, who is of Navajo descent, became the first ever native American UFC champion when she won season 26 of the Ultimate Fighter. She defeated Invicta stalwart Roxanne Modafferi in the series finale to claim the inaugural championship.
She was handed a tough task for her first fight as UFC champion in the form of former Muay Thai world champion Valentina Shevchenko. ‘Bullet’ took UFC women’s bantamweight queen Amanda Nunes the distance in a highly-competitive five-round affair at UFC 215. The Brazillian took a very contentious split decision to successfully defend the title.
After the bout, Shevchenko dropped down to 125 lbs. Her UFC flyweight debut was a very controversial mismatch against promotional newcomer Priscila Cachoeira. According to Fightmetric’s unofficial stats, Shevchenko outstruck Cachoeira by 217-1 before finishing her via second-round submission. The Brazilian hasn’t been seen in the Octagon since.
Shevchenko’s skillset, experience and Octagon performances meant she was a heavy favourite to usurp Montano’s throne. However, the title fight is now in serious doubt after Montano was transported to hospital the morning of the weigh-ins. The unfortunate news was first reported by ESPN’s Ariel Helwani. It has since been confirmed by multiple sources.
Nicco Montaño, the UFC women’s flyweight champion, has been transported to a local hospital, according to multiple sources. There is serious concern about the status of her title fight against Valentina Shevchenko at this time.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) September 7, 2018
I can confirm that #UFC women’s flyweight champion, Nicco Montaño, has been transported to a local hospital. As first reported by @arielhelwani. Her first title defense & bout with @BulletValentina may be in jeopardy. Let’s hope not. #UFC228
— Josh Carey (@JoshDCarey) September 7, 2018
https://twitter.com/aaronbronsteter/status/1038055185178918914
Helwani later reported that discussions are underway regarding the flyweight title. There are no other flyweights set to compete on the card, so finding a replacement could prove to be tricky.
Discussions are ongoing regarding what to do about tomorrow night Co-main, sources say. There aren’t any female flyweights on the card. The fight hasn’t been officially canceled just yet but it is in serious jeopardy considering Montaño’s health status.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) September 7, 2018
We’ll keep you updated as the story progresses. Here’s hoping Montano makes a full and speedy recovery. The world’s MMA community are sending good vibes her way.
