Michelle Waterson out of UFC 257 fight with Amanda Ribas next month

Michelle Waterson has pulled out of her fight against Amanda Ribas at UFC 257 next month due to an undisclosed reason.

MMA Fighting reported the news on Tuesday, though the UFC is yet to make an official announcement. It’s currently unclear as to why Waterson is unable to compete, and if the UFC will seek a replacement for Ribas.

Waterson (18-8) fought twice in 2020 losing a split decision to Carla Esparza in May and winning a split decision against Angela Hill in September.

Rivas (10-1) is undefeated since making her UFC debut against Emily Whitmire in 2019. The Brazilian has won decisions against Mackenzie Dern and Randa Markos, and most recently submitted Paige VanZant at UFC 251 in July.

UFC 257 takes place on January 23rd, 2021 but no location or venue has yet been announced for the card. A lightweight fight between Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor will headline the event.