Shevchenko Demonstrates Absolute Dominance against Zhang Weili at UFC 322

Valentina Shevchenko is Crowned at UFC 322, Demonstrating Her Dominance

Valentina Shevchenko reaffirmed her position as the number one female pound-for-pound fighter in the world rankings, defending her flyweight title (125 pounds) on Saturday in the co-main event of UFC 322 held at Madison Square Garden. Shevchenko achieved a unanimous decision victory over former strawweight champion Zhang Weili, showcasing her superiority in the octagon. This victory allowed Shevchenko to equal the legend Amanda Nunes at the top of UFC history, with 11 wins in championship fights. The fight on Saturday was promoted as one of the most important clashes in the history of women’s mixed martial arts. Zhang, after vacating her 115-pound title, moved up a weight class to challenge Shevchenko. The fight unfolded in a one-sided manner, with Shevchenko dominating each round on the judges’ scorecards.

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

Valentina Shevchenko

Shevchenko, 37 years old, demonstrated a clear advantage in all areas of the fight, especially in grappling. She repeatedly took Zhang down and controlled her on the ground, neutralizing all offensive aspects of her opponent. Shevchenko’s strategy included controlling the distance and timing of her takedowns. In addition to her ground game, she was also successful with leg and body kicks.

I was prepared for the most difficult challenge. I knew I couldn’t trade 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 in total strikes (137-80) and landed 5 of her 6 takedown attempts. She only needed one takedown per round, as Zhang was unable to get back to her feet. Shevchenko accumulated 13 minutes and 24 seconds of control time, during which he was close to achieving the crucifix on several occasions. Shevchenko’s immediate future is promising. Her most likely next opponent in the flyweight division is Brazilian Natalia Silva, who is coming off a dominant decision victory over Alexa Grasso in May. Erin Blanchfield, who submitted Tracy Cortez at UFC 322 on Saturday, also presents a solid resume. Another intriguing fight could be against the current bantamweight champion, Kayla Harrison, who is expected to defend her title against Nunes in early 2026. Nunes, coming out of retirement, seeks to regain the belt she vacated in 2023. If Harrison wins, she has already expressed her interest in facing Shevchenko. Shevchenko has already competed at bantamweight and challenged Nunes for the 135-pound title in 2016. Zhang, for his part, promised to come back strong, but did not indicate whether he will stay at 125 pounds or return to 115.