Erin Blanchfield welcomes grappling challenge from Jasmine Jasudavicius

Erin Blanchfield is looking forward to facing Jasmine Jasudavicius at UFC Edmonton, particularly because the Canadian is expected to challenge her on the ground. The two flyweights are known primarily for their grappling, although both have evolved into well-rounded fighters. They will meet in the co-main event on Saturday.

Erin Blanchfield Expects Grappling Battle Against Jasmine Jasudavicius

With a strong background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Blanchfield has built much of her success around her grappling. This time, the American will have an opponent across the Octagon who also relies on a grappling-based strategy, with clinch control and strong takedowns.

Blanchfield believes Jasudavicius will present a different kind of challenge inside the Octagon. Speaking to MMA Junkie, the American said she rarely faces opponents who actively look to grapple with her, making the matchup an interesting test of her wrestling and ground game.

"She's a heavy wrestler," Blanchfield said. "I don't think I've fought really anyone who's wanted to grapple me back. Even if they have, it's basically because I forced it first. I think it is going to be fun to fight someone who wants to grapple with me and force that wrestling. I think that'll make for an exciting fight."

Both fighters have already displayed their grappling skills inside the cage. Blanchfield has scored five submission wins in her career, while Jasudavicius has finished four opponents in the same manner.

The two fighters also enter the matchup coming off victories and will look to keep their momentum going on Saturday. Blanchfield is riding a two-fight winning streak, having defeated Rose Namajunas and Tracy Cortez in her last two fights. Jasudavicius, meanwhile, earned a unanimous decision victory over Karine Silva in April.

This fight will take place as  the co-main event of UFC Edmonton, headlined by a welterweight bout between Joaquin Buckley and Mike Malott.