After a controversial split draw fight against Alexa Grasso, Valentina Shevchenko desires a rematch but is uncertain due to a broken thumb sustained in the first round; she also suggests their next fight could take place in her homeland of Kyrgyzstan on its Independence Day, despite uncertainty about her injury and the UFC’s plans.
Valentina Shevchenko is contemplating a rematch with Alexa Grasso, but she remains uncertain whether it will be feasible. Over the weekend, Shevchenko’s attempt to regain the flyweight title ended in a draw in the Noche UFC main event. Despite a contentious decision, particularly with regards to Mike Bell’s scoring awarding Grasso a 10-8 in the fifth round, Shevchenko once again left the arena empty-handed. Adding to the frustration, Shevchenko broke her thumb in the first round. Yet, she still believed she was leading 3-2, expecting a split decision.
Shevchenko felt that she left everything in the octagon, even putting up a fight with her broken thumb. Despite her injury in the first round, she fought on for four more rounds. Her injury even impacted a potential submission, as it weakened her grip. Nonetheless, Shevchenko does not view these as excuses but facts of the fight. Echoing a similar sentiment, Shevchenko insisted she did enough to ensure a win in at least three rounds, despite her physical challenges.
Almost instantly after the fight, there were speculations for a trilogy between the duo. Grasso was tepid about another match, expressing her willingness to yield her spot to other contenders if the UFC proposed it. On the other hand, Shevchenko was open to the idea, but needed to evaluate the severity of her injury. She was also mindful about pausing other players’ progress in the division. While Shevchenko stated her readiness for any future battles, she felt unsure about her recovery timeframe and did not want to rush any commitments.
Interestingly, Shevchenko proposed that if a trilogy happens, it could occur on the Independence Day of Kyrgyzstan. She believed that since the previous match was held on Mexican Independence Day, the follow-up match should give her hometown equal consideration. Shevchenko’s suggestion seems unlikely since the UFC has not held an event in Kyrgyzstan before. But wherever the bout may take place, Shevchenko remains committed to enhancing her legacy and serving as a role model for aspiring fighters. She sees herself continuing her journey in martial arts, highlighting her passion and endurance despite fighting multiple generations of counterparts.