Shevchenko Dominates Zhang Weili and Retains UFC Flyweight Title

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 and solidifying herself as the number one pound-for-pound in the women’s category. In the co-main event of UFC 322, held at Madison Square Garden, Shevchenko faced former strawweight champion Zhang Weili, whom she defeated by unanimous decision. With this victory, Shevchenko tied Amanda Nunes at the top of UFC history, accumulating 11 wins in title fights. The fight, considered one of the most important in the history of women’s MMA, saw Shevchenko dominate every round, 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 the others, but when they are here, in front of me, they can’t do anything.

Valentina Shevchenko

Shevchenko’s strategy was key, exploiting her superiority in grappling and neutralizing Zhang’s offense. The champion controlled the distance and timed her takedowns to perfection, achieving total control over her opponent. In addition to her dominance on the ground, Shevchenko connected effective kicks to Zhang’s legs and body.

I was prepared for the most difficult challenge. I knew I couldn’t trade with Weili; she has incredible punching power. That’s why I worked very hard and intelligently to use distance and wrestling.

Valentina Shevchenko

The fight statistics reveal Shevchenko’s dominance, who outperformed Zhang in total strikes (137-80) and completed 5 of 6 takedown attempts. Shevchenko accumulated 13 minutes and 24 seconds of control time, evidencing her superiority in the fight. The future of Shevchenko in the flyweight division presents several 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 possible contenders. Another attractive option is the bantamweight champion, Kayla Harrison, who is expected to defend her title against Nunes in early 2026. If Harrison wins, she has expressed interest in facing Shevchenko. For her part, Zhang Weili promised to come back strong, but has not defined whether she will remain at flyweight or return to the strawweight division.