Valentina Shevchenko Dominates Zhang, Retains UFC Flyweight Title

UPDATE: Valentina Shevchenko has solidified her status as the world’s top pound-for-pound female fighter by decisively defeating Zhang Weili to retain her 125-pound flyweight championship at UFC 322 on October 14, 2023, in Madison Square Garden, New York. This victory marks her 11th win in UFC title fights, tying her with Amanda Nunes for the most in history.

The fight, touted as one of the biggest matchups in women’s MMA, turned out to be one-sided, with Shevchenko winning every round on all three judges’ scorecards. Shevchenko, now 26-4-1, showcased her dominance throughout the match against the former strawweight champion, Zhang Weili, who moved up in weight class for this challenge.

Shevchenko’s performance was characterized by superior grappling and striking, landing 137 total strikes compared to Zhang’s 80. She effectively executed five of six takedown attempts, controlling the fight for a remarkable 13:24 of control time. “I was prepared for the hardest challenge,” Shevchenko stated. “I knew I couldn’t exchange with Weili; she has super punching power.”

“This is the art of martial arts,” Shevchenko added. “When there is an opponent who is super hard in their weight class against all other opponents, but when they are here, in front of me, they can’t do anything.”

Despite the defeat, Zhang, who holds a record of 26-4, expressed her determination to return stronger, although she did not clarify whether she would remain at flyweight or revert to strawweight.

The result leaves Shevchenko with compelling options for her next title defense. Brazilian Natalia Silva, who is 19-5-1 and recently defeated Alexa Grasso, is a likely contender. Erin Blanchfield, who submitted Tracy Cortez at UFC 322, is also a strong candidate.

Additionally, bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison, who is set to defend her title against Nunes in early 2026, has indicated interest in facing Shevchenko next if she wins. Shevchenko has previously competed at bantamweight and challenged Nunes for the title back in 2016.

The landscape of women’s MMA continues to evolve, and Shevchenko’s latest victory has only intensified the competition at both flyweight and bantamweight. Fans will be eagerly watching to see what unfolds next in the octagon.