Shevchenko Seeks to Maintain Reign at UFC 315
Valentina Shevchenko is preparing to step into the octagon at UFC 315, and she will be met with an unusual sight. For the first time in almost three years, she will not have Alexa Grasso in front of her, marking the end of a historic trilogy that defined the women’s flyweight championship. In the co-main event in Montreal, Shevchenko will defend her title against Manon Fiorot.
Although it may seem strange, this will be the first title defense for Shevchenko, who at 37 years old has dominated the 125-pound division for most of its eight years of existence. Now, she faces a new challenge: to prove that she still possesses the magic that made her a champion.
It’s not a new beginning, but the continuation of a journey. Experience has made me stronger.
Valentina Shevchenko
Shevchenko’s career in martial arts has been exceptional. She conquered eight Muay Thai world championships since her teens and managed to finish her first seven professional MMA fights. In the UFC, she defeated Holly Holm and Julianna Peña, before competing at bantamweight and suffering two close defeats against Amanda Nunes. Upon the establishment of the flyweight division in 2017, Shevchenko was crowned champion in less than a year, holding the title for over four years.
The question that arises is whether Shevchenko is the best flyweight fighter of all time. Is her legacy comparable to that of Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, who reigned in the men’s 125-pound division for almost six years?
Johnson, retired from MMA since September after six years in One Championship, still holds the UFC record with 11 consecutive title defenses. When asked three years ago who could break his record, Johnson replied: “Valentina Shevchenko”.
Although Shevchenko did not reach that record, her achievements are notable. Research statistics reveal that both fighters share the top spots in several categories among the flyweights. Johnson leads in title fight wins and winning streak, while Shevchenko excels in control time in the top position and knockout draws.
To better understand their achievements, it’s valuable to listen to the experts: Shevchenko and Johnson. Both recognize each other’s skills. Johnson highlights Shevchenko’s evolution and her strategy in the trilogy against Grasso. Shevchenko admires Johnson’s speed and precision, and her ability to control movement.
Regarding their victory celebrations, Johnson prefers acrobatics, while Shevchenko performs a traditional dance from her culture.
I have more experience in dancing. My mother made me study dance when I was young and starting to fight.
Valentina Shevchenko
Johnson acknowledges that Shevchenko has the best celebration dance. However, in the world of video games, Johnson considers himself superior, to which Shevchenko responds that she prefers to focus on perfecting her skills in the octagon.
