Valentina Shevchenko didn’t just defend her flyweight championship at UFC 322—she may have fundamentally shifted the GOAT conversation in women’s MMA. In a masterful performance at Madison Square Garden, “Bullet” systematically dismantled Zhang Weili’s bid for two-division glory, equaling Amanda Nunes’ record of 11 title fight victories in the process. The dominant unanimous decision victory (50-45 across all scorecards) solidifies Shevchenko’s claim as perhaps the most technically complete female fighter in history, placing immense pressure on Nunes to consider a comeback if she hopes to retain her status as the undeniable greatest.
A Technical Masterclass at Madison Square Garden
From the opening bell, Shevchenko showcased why she remains one of the most difficult puzzles to solve in all of MMA. Facing Weili’s explosive power and relentless pressure, the champion employed flawless distance management, sharp counter-striking, and strategic clinch work to neutralise the strawweight champion’s advantages. The fight followed a familiar pattern for Shevchenko opponents: moments of promise quickly extinguished by technical precision and fight IQ that seems to elevate with each title defence.
Weili, who moved up from 115 pounds for the superfight, found herself consistently a step behind, unable to land her signature power shots with meaningful impact. Shevchenko’s ability to control the pace and location of the fight—whether at distance, in the clinch, or in sporadic grappling exchanges—demonstrated the gap between a champion and even an elite challenger from another division.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: GOAT Credentials Strengthened
With her 11th title fight victory, Shevchenko now shares the women’s UFC record with Amanda Nunes, creating a statistical deadlock in one of the most important metrics for greatness. However, Shevchenko’s case extends beyond mere numbers. Her nine consecutive flyweight title defences and dominance across multiple weight classes—including competitive showings against Nunes at bantamweight—build a compelling argument for supremacy.
What separates Shevchenko in the GOAT debate is her unparalleled technical mastery. While Nunes possessed fight-ending power that overwhelmed opponents, Shevchenko’s approach resembles surgical precision—dissecting opponents with minimal damage taken. This victory over Weili, one of the most dominant champions in another division, adds a crucial data point that Nunes cannot claim: a decisive win over an active, prime champion from a lower weight class.
The Nunes Factor: Will the Lioness Return?
The shadow of Amanda Nunes looms larger than ever following UFC 322. The former two-division champion’s retirement in 2023 left the GOAT conversation unresolved, and Shevchenko’s continued excellence demands a response. Sources close to Nunes indicate she’s been monitoring Shevchenko’s run closely, and the financial incentive for a superfight trilogy—coupled with the opportunity to definitively settle the debate—creates compelling reasons for a comeback.
However, Nunes would face significant challenges returning after a multi-year layoff against a champion who has only improved during her absence. The timing also creates complications, as emerging contender Kayla Harrison has expressed interest in facing the Shevchenko-Nunes winner, creating a potential three-way rivalry that could define the next era of women’s MMA.
What’s Next for the Champion?
Shevchenko’s victory creates multiple intriguing possibilities. An immediate rematch with Weili seems unlikely given the one-sided nature of their contest. Instead, the champion could face the winner of the upcoming Erin Blanchfield-Manon Fiorot contender bout, or potentially entertain a move back to bantamweight for superfight opportunities.
The most compelling scenario remains a third fight with Nunes, which would not only settle their personal rivalry (currently 1-1) but likely determine the women’s GOAT for the foreseeable future. With both fighters now holding identical title victory records, the stage is set for what could be the biggest women’s fight in MMA history.
Conclusion: The Throne Awaits a Challenger
Valentina Shevchenko left no doubts at UFC 322—she is operating at a level that demands historical recognition. By turning back one of the sport’s most dangerous challengers and matching Amanda Nunes’ most significant record, she has forcefully stated her case for GOAT status. The question now becomes whether Nunes will answer the challenge or cede the throne to her longtime rival.
As the women’s MMA landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: Valentina Shevchenko has positioned herself not just as a dominant champion but as a fighter who may ultimately redefine what greatness means in women’s mixed martial arts.
Shevchenko’s GOAT Case: FAQ
How many title fights has Shevchenko won now?
With her UFC 322 victory, Shevchenko has won 11 title fights, tying Amanda Nunes for the most in women’s UFC history.
What makes Shevchenko’s case for GOAT status strong?
Her combination of technical mastery, nine consecutive flyweight defences, success across multiple weight classes, and now the tied title victory record creates a comprehensive argument.
Could we see Shevchenko vs. Nunes 3?
The timing has never been better for a trilogy fight, with both fighters holding identical title victory records and the GOAT debate reaching its peak intensity.
Where does Zhang Weili go after this loss?
Weili will likely return to strawweight to defend her title there, though a future rematch with Shevchenko isn’t out of the question given her champion status.
How does Kayla Harrison fit into this picture?
Harrison represents the next generation threat, having expressed interest in facing the Shevchenko-Nunes winner, creating a potential superfight scenario.
