Michelle Waterson out, Marina Rodriguez targeted vs. Amanda Ribas at UFC 257

Amanda Ribas had her scheduled fight for UFC 257 drop out Tuesday, but it took her little time to get a new foe lined up.

Ribas now is now expected to face Marina Rodriguez after Michelle Waterson had to pull out of the matchup. MMA Junkie confirmed the changes through sources with knowledge of the situation after Ag Fight reported the Waterson fallout and MMA Fighting reported the Rodriguez matchup.

Ribas (10-1 MMA, 4-0 UFC) is looking for a strong start in 2021 after going 2-0 in the UFC in both 2019 and 2020, defeating Randa Markos and Paige VanZant this year.

Rodriguez (12-1-2 MMA, 2-1-2 UFC), for her part, is looking to right the ship after losing to Carla Esparza and fighting to a draw against Cynthia Calvillo.

No word was given on the reason for Waterson’s withdrawal.

UFC 257, which is scheduled for Jan. 23, will be headlined by Conor McGregor vs. Dustin Poirier. The location for the event has not yet been announced.