Shevchenko Crushes Zhang: Retains UFC Flyweight Title with Total Domination

Valentina Shevchenko solidified her position as the number one pound-for-pound female fighter in the world, defending her flyweight championship (125 pounds) with a unanimous decision victory over former strawweight champion Zhang Weili, in the co-main event of UFC 322 held at Madison Square Garden. Shevchenko tied the legend Amanda Nunes at the top of UFC history with 11 wins in title fights. The fight on Saturday was promoted as one of the most important clashes in the history of women’s mixed martial arts, as Zhang vacated her 115-pound title to move up a weight class and challenge Shevchenko. However, the action was unilateral, with Shevchenko dominating each round on the scorecards of all three judges.

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

Valentina Shevchenko

Shevchenko, 37 years old, maintained a clear advantage in all areas of the fight, especially in wrestling. She repeatedly took Zhang down and controlled her on the ground. She neutralized all of Zhang’s offensive aspects, dictating the distance and timing her takedowns expertly. Although most of her work was on the ground, she was also successful on her feet with leg and body kicks.

I was prepared for the toughest challenge. I knew I couldn’t trade blows with Weili; she has superior striking power. That’s why I worked very hard and intelligently to use distance and wrestling.

Valentina Shevchenko

According to UFC statistics, Shevchenko outstruck Zhang 137-80 in total strikes and converted 5 of 6 takedown attempts. She only needed one takedown per round, as Zhang was unable to get back to her feet. Shevchenko accumulated 13:24 of control time, during which she nearly secured a crucifix position on several occasions. Shevchenko’s immediate future is interesting. Her most likely next challenger in flyweight is the Brazilian Natalia Silva, who is coming off a dominant decision over Alexa Grasso in May. Erin Blanchfield, who submitted Tracy Cortez at UFC 322 on Saturday, also has a solid resume. However, perhaps the most intriguing is the current bantamweight champion, Kayla Harrison, who is expected to defend her title against Nunes in early 2026. Nunes returns from retirement in an attempt to regain the belt she vacated in 2023. If Harrison wins, she has already shown interest in facing Shevchenko next. Shevchenko has already competed at bantamweight and challenged Nunes for the 135-pound belt in 2016. Meanwhile, Zhang vowed to come back strong, but did not indicate whether he intends to stay at 125 pounds or return to 115.