Strawweight Randa Markos will no longer face Luana Pinheiro at UFC 260.
The exact reason why is not exactly clear, but the coronavirus has messed up the UFC’s plans once again. Per Combate’s report, strawweight Randa Markos will not be taking on Luana Pinheiro at UFC 260 anymore, due to the company’s COVID-19 protocol. So far, the promotion has not made an official announcement on the specific reason regarding the Canadian’s withdrawal.
Currently on three-fight losing skid and on the verge of having a sub- .500 record, Randa Markos (10-10-1) is in desperate need of a victory. In her last three outings, the 35-year-old was soundly bested by Kanako Murata, Mackenzie Dern and Amanda Ribas. Her last win happened in October 2019, when she picked up a split decision win over Ashley Yoder.
Still waiting on a new opponent, Luana Pinheiro (8-1) is a Brazilian prospect who caused an impression in her showing at Dana White’s Contender Series. In that fight, the 27-year-old knocked out Stephanie Frausto in the first round, back in November 2020, to score a UFC contract.
Now, Luana Pinheiro awaits a new opponent for her bout at UFC 260, on March 27, at the UFC Apex, in Las Vegas. The card is scheduled to be headlined by a heavyweight title fight between the champion, Stipe Miocic, and top contender Francis Ngannou.