UFC Rumors: Paige VanZant's return fight for March revealed

Paige VanZant has been out of action since the beginning of the year. She was a part of the first card of the year where she defeated Rachel Ostovich by submission in a very good performance. Her last two bouts have been in the UFC Women's Flyweight division, but VanZant will be returning to Strawweight for her next bout and it's going to be a tough one.

According to MMA Fighting, VanZant will make her return after 14 months to face Brazillian up-and-comer Amanda Ribas in March for UFC Brasilia. March 14th is the date and Ribas will be looking to extend her win-streak to 4 in a row as she takes on a big name in VanZant. VanZant has been out for a long time after getting multiple surgeries done on her fractured arm.

The Brazillian Amanda Ribas hasn't had the same spotlight that VanZant has but those who saw her last couple of fights understand that she has incredible potential. She ended the undefeated streak of Mackenzie Dern, a much-hyped prospect via unanimous decision.

Amanda Ribas was praised for her performance that fight for having a killer instinct, well-rounded skills and showing a lot of improvement from her previous fights. Simply put, she's a more well-rounded opponent than VanZant is and she will be fighting in her home country. She's suffered only one defeat before, while VanZant's record stands at 8-4.

With that said, VanZant has faced far tougher competition, losing to very tough opponents such as Michelle Waterson, Rose Namajunas, and Tecia Torres, to name a few. She has faced championship-caliber opponents and while there's no questioning her toughness, she hasn't reached the level that many had hoped.

It's a sink or swim situation for VanZant and it's undoubtedly going to be a big test for her. Will she be able to get past Ribas?