Who Is Next for Valentina Shevchenko in the Flyweight Division?
After an impressive victory over Manon Fiorot in the co-main event of UFC 315, Valentina Shevchenko continues to add to her illustrious career. Widely considered one of the greatest women’s MMA fighters of all time, she now looks to cement her legacy as she nears the final chapters of her fighting days. The question that remains is who is next for Valentina to face? In this article, we explore some potential intriguing matchups.
Zhang Weili vs. Valentina Shevchenko
A potential super fight between Valentina Shevchenko and Strawweight Champion Zhang Weili appears more possible than ever. Both fighters have spent years at the top of their divisions, making a matchup between them a compelling option for the UFC. Zhang has dominated the Strawweight Division in recent years, with only Virna Jandiroba remaining as a notable contender she has yet to face. A move up in weight would make sense for Zhang, as she would not face a major size disadvantage in the Flyweight Division. Pairing two of the most recognizable and accomplished female fighters in the UFC would create a high-profile bout capable of drawing significant attention. Zhang’s elite boxing and grappling skills, combined with her experience against strikers like Yan Xiaonan and wrestlers like Tatiana Suarez, make her a dangerous opponent for Shevchenko.
Natalia Silva vs. Valentina Shevchenko
If a fight with Zhang Weili does not materialize, the top contender in the Flyweight Division is Natalia Silva. Fresh off an impressive win over former champion Alexa Grasso at UFC 315, Silva has quickly established herself as a dominant force since joining the UFC. Known for her speed and sharp kickboxing, Silva presents an intriguing stylistic challenge for Shevchenko. This matchup would likely be a striking showcase, with both fighters possessing high-level stand-up skills. Shevchenko’s ability to neutralize kickboxers, as seen in her recent fight against Fiorot, could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Conclusion
The future of the Flyweight Division remains bright, with Valentina Shevchenko still facing significant competition. Whether it’s a super fight against another dominant champion like Zhang Weili or a rising contender in Natalia Silva, high-level matchups remain on the horizon. The UFC has struggled in recent years to build compelling narratives in women’s MMA, but Shevchenko’s star power and the quality of potential opponents present a valuable opportunity to deliver marquee fights for fans. The future of the sport looks bright.
