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The UFC world is buzzing as Valentina Shevchenko expresses interest in a high-stakes super fight against Zhang Weili. Ahead of her women’s flyweight title defense against Manon Fiorot at UFC 315 on May 10 in Montreal, Shevchenko acknowledges the growing possibility of a champion-vs.-champion showdown with Weili.
Initially, there was speculation about Shevchenko defending her belt against strawweight champion Weili after the latter’s dominant title defense over Tatiana Suarez at UFC 312 in February. However, the timing didn’t align, leading Shevchenko (24-4-1) to face Fiorot (12-1) instead. Despite this, Shevchenko remains open to the blockbuster fight should she retain her title.
“I’m open to all opportunities,” Shevchenko told. “Weili, she showed a lot of heart in her fights and with all the years that she’s put into her performances, she’s showed that she’s a great fighter. Why not? It’s an amazing fight and I think all the fans are going to be excited to see that.”
Weili, currently ranked No. 2 in the latest UFC women’s pound-for-pound rankings, has been vocal about her goal of moving up in weight to claim a second UFC title. UFC CEO Dana White has also praised Weili’s recent performances and expressed support for her ambitions. With both champions and White seemingly on board, it remains a matter of timing.
For now, Shevchenko is focused solely on her next challenge.
“For me, as I say every time, it’s one step at a time,” she stated. “I’m not looking to jump in front to do something like that. I am focused on my next fight right now. It’s going to be Manon, and after we’re done with that and I step forward, me and my team are going to think and see what is next for me.”
With the UFC 315 showdown looming, fans eagerly await the outcome. If Shevchenko secures the victory, a dream fight against Zhang Weili could become a reality, sending shockwaves through the MMA world.