Shevchenko Crushes Zhang and Retains UFC Title: Total Domination

Valentina Shevchenko Triumphs at UFC 322: Absolute Domination Over Zhang Weili

Valentina Shevchenko once again demonstrated her supremacy in the world of mixed martial arts, defending her flyweight title (125 pounds) with a resounding victory over Zhang Weili in the co-main event of UFC 322 held at Madison Square Garden. Shevchenko, solidifying her position as the number one pound-for-pound in the women’s category, tied with Amanda Nunes at the top of the UFC title fight wins list, totaling 11. The fight, billed as one of the most anticipated in the history of women’s MMA, turned out to be a monologue of dominance by Shevchenko, who prevailed in all rounds according to the judges’ scorecards.

This is the art of martial arts. When there is an opponent who is very tough in their category against all others, but when they are here, in front of me, they can’t do anything.

Valentina Shevchenko

Shevchenko’s strategy was based on total control of the fight, taking advantage of her superiority in grappling. With effective takedowns and constant control on the ground, she completely neutralized Zhang’s offense, dictating the pace and distance. Despite the anticipation of a high-caliber fight, Shevchenko dominated her rival with precise striking, including leg and body kicks.

I was prepared for the most difficult challenge. I knew I couldn’t trade blows with Weili, she has a lot of power. That’s why I worked very hard and smart to use distance and wrestling.

Valentina Shevchenko

The UFC statistics revealed Shevchenko’s clear dominance, outstriking Zhang in total strikes (137-80) and landing five out of six takedown attempts. Shevchenko accumulated a control time of 13:24, demonstrating her ability to maintain the initiative in the fight. The future of Shevchenko in the flyweight division presents interesting options. Natalia Silva, who is coming off a dominant victory over Alexa Grasso, and Erin Blanchfield, who submitted Tracy Cortez at UFC 322, are some of the possible contenders.

One of the most attractive possibilities is a match against Kayla Harrison, current bantamweight champion. Harrison will defend her title against Amanda Nunes, who came out of retirement to try to regain the belt she vacated in 2023. If Harrison wins, she has already expressed her interest in facing Shevchenko.

For her part, Zhang Weili promised to return stronger, but has not confirmed whether she will remain at 125 pounds or return to 115.