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Valentina Shevchenko Wins 50-45 Over Zhang Weili to Retain Flyweight Title at UFC 322

Shevchenko's distance control plus wrestling neutralized Zhang's power, prompting the challenger to consider a return to 115 pounds.

Overview

  • All three judges scored the bout 50-45, reflecting Shevchenko’s sustained top control and repeated takedowns over five rounds.
  • The victory ties the women’s record for UFC title defenses across reigns and matches Amanda Nunes with 10 championship-fight wins.
  • The co-main event took place at Madison Square Garden in New York on Nov. 15 as part of the UFC 322 card.
  • Zhang had vacated the strawweight belt to pursue two-division status at flyweight, but she struggled to deal with the size and grappling disparity.
  • UFC CEO Dana White criticized Zhang’s performance at the post-fight presser, highlighting that the result underscored the importance of weight classes.