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UFC flyweight champion Alexa Grasso is set to compete at UFC 306, now known as Riyadh Season Noche UFC, on September 14. However, it's still uncertain if her opponent will be Valentina Shevchenko.
Despite both fighters coaching against each other on The Ultimate Fighter 32, Shevchenko has not confirmed her participation in the upcoming bout. Shevchenko has expressed reluctance to fight on Mexican Independence Day again after their previous matchup at Noche UFC 2023 ended in a controversial split draw.
Grasso remains hopeful that Shevchenko will agree to the fight but is prepared to defend her title regardless of her opponent.
“That’s the plan,” Grasso stated. “That’s the fight I would like to happen. I have to be part of Noche UFC. How can I not be part of Noche UFC this year? So I just truly hope she can accept the fight. It’s good for both of us.”
The UFC recently announced a partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Season, which will sponsor the event, but no fights have been officially confirmed.
All indications point to a third bout between Grasso and Shevchenko, but even Grasso is unsure who she will face in September. If Shevchenko opts out, Grasso is ready to shift her focus to Manon Fiorot, who is next in line for a title shot after defeating Erin Blanchfield in March, extending her UFC record to 7-0.
“I think that’s her opportunity too,” Grasso said of Fiorot. “She’s the No. 2 contender and she’s been having a nice winning streak. So just in case if it’s not Valentina, I think it’s going to be Manon.”
As the reigning champion, Grasso is committed to defending her title against whoever the UFC puts in front of her, be it Shevchenko or Fiorot. She remains eager for a trilogy fight with Shevchenko, recognizing its significance in women’s MMA history.
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