Valentina Shevchenko reclaimed her position as the UFC Women’s Flyweight Champion at UFC 306 in September, triumphing over Alexa Grasso through a unanimous decision in a thrilling trilogy match. Shevchenko initially held the title from December 2018 until her unexpected loss to Grasso at UFC 285 in March 2022. This latest victory not only reinstates her dominance in the division but also underscores her resilience and skill in high-stakes competitions.

In their rematch, Shevchenko, often nicknamed “Bullet,” and Grasso concluded the bout in a split draw, setting the stage for their decisive fight at UFC 306. With the championship belt back in her possession, Shevchenko is eagerly looking forward to a potential superfight against Zhang Weili, the current strawweight titleholder, which could create a significant buzz in the MMA community.

During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Shevchenko expressed her readiness to confront any challenger. “I’m here. I’m ready to fight anyone,” she affirmed, showcasing her competitive spirit. “You know me; once the UFC proposes a fight and I agree to it, I never decline any names. Whatever they (UFC) have in mind, whether it’s a superfight or anything else, I’m up for it. I’ll fight anyone, anywhere.” Her unwavering confidence highlights her commitment to the sport and eagerness to face the toughest opponents.

Weili captured the strawweight championship at UFC 281 in November 2022 and has successfully defended her title on two occasions, solidifying her status in the division. However, the pathway to a title shot is less clear in the women’s 115-pound category, as no standout contender has emerged. This uncertainty adds to the excitement surrounding potential matchups in the division, with fans eager to see how the rankings evolve.

Conversely, the flyweight division has a clear frontrunner in Manon Fiorot, who ranks second and is currently on an impressive 12-fight winning streak. Her recent victories against third-ranked Erin Blanchfield and former two-time strawweight champion Rose Namajunas further establish her as a formidable competitor. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how Fiorot’s momentum will impact the division, especially with championship opportunities on the horizon.

Source