Valentina Shevchenko has indicated her willingness to face Zhang Weili in a superfight that fans would love to see.
In February, Zhang Weili, the UFC strawweight champion, successfully defended her title for the third time with a victory over Tatiana Suarez at UFC 312. Following this win, Zhang expressed interest in moving up a weight class to challenge Shevchenko for the flyweight title. UFC CEO Dana White even suggested this possibility.
However, it was announced earlier this month that Shevchenko will first defend her flyweight title against Manon Fiorot at UFC 315 in May. According to Shevchenko, this was always the planned fight.
“I knew I would be defending my belt against Manon,” Shevchenko stated in an interview. “When Weili called me out, I considered it might lead to a change, but when the UFC confirmed the fight agreement, it was the same plan as before.”
Shevchenko acknowledged Zhang Weili as a formidable fighter with a proven track record of success and congratulated her on her recent victory.
Manon Fiorot has been the top contender in the flyweight division for almost a year, since her win over Erin Blanchfield at UFC Atlantic City. Shevchenko stated that after her fight with Fiorot, she would be happy to consider a superfight with Zhang Weili.
“I believe a fight with Zhang would be amazing and something the fans would really want to see,” Shevchenko said. She emphasized her current focus on her upcoming opponent, Manon Fiorot, but acknowledged the superfight’s potential.
Shevchenko added that this matchup could be huge for women’s sport, requiring careful negotiations. For now, her priority is her fight in Montreal in two months.
UFC 315 is scheduled for May 10 at the Bell Centre in Montreal. The event will feature Belal Muhammad defending his welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena in the main event, with Shevchenko vs. Fiorot as the co-main event.
