Valentina Shevchenko is on a mission to reclaim her UFC flyweight title, and she’s not mincing words about her plan for the rematch with Alexa Grasso at Noche UFC on Saturday.
It’s been six months since Shevchenko lost her title due to an ill-fated spinning back kick that led to a submission by Grasso. This marked her first true defeat in MMA, ending a seven-fight championship reign. Despite the loss, Shevchenko disputes the narrative that she’s on the decline. She points out that she was winning most of the fight and that MMA is a tough sport where one moment can define the outcome.
While some former champions have found relief in losing the belt due to the pressure it brings, Shevchenko isn’t one of them. For her, the title symbolizes being the best in the world, and she’s determined to regain it.
But her desire to become a champion again is overshadowed by her need to avenge the loss to Grasso. She doesn’t harbor any ill will towards her opponent but wants to erase the memory of defeat.
Throughout her UFC career, Shevchenko has been known for her intense focus and determination in the cage. She vows not to bring unnecessary anger or aggression into the rematch but instead a renewed sense of purpose to eliminate Grasso at all costs.
She describes her approach as a “doomsday” one, with no thought of what comes after the fight. Her entire focus is on September 16, the date of the rematch, and she’s ready to take back what she believes is rightfully hers.
To those who doubt her, Shevchenko has a clear message: she’ll decide when it’s the end, and that time is not coming anytime soon. She’s determined to fight as long as she wants, win the belt again, and prove her resilience in the octagon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC Rematch
Q: What happened in Valentina Shevchenko’s previous fight that led to her losing the UFC flyweight title?
A: Valentina Shevchenko lost her UFC flyweight title due to an ill-fated spinning back kick, which resulted in a takedown by Alexa Grasso followed by a rear-naked choke submission.
Q: Has Valentina Shevchenko ever experienced a loss like this in MMA before?
A: Prior to this loss, Shevchenko had not truly been finished in an MMA fight. She had previously experienced a TKO loss to Liz Carmouche, but it was due to a cut during a fight she was winning.
Q: How does Valentina Shevchenko feel about the narrative that she’s on the decline as a fighter?
A: Shevchenko disagrees with the idea that she’s on the decline. She believes that despite her loss, she was winning most of the fight and that MMA is a sport where one moment can define the outcome.
Q: Does Valentina Shevchenko consider losing the UFC title a relief?
A: No, Shevchenko does not consider losing the title a relief. For her, the title represents being the best in the world, and losing it only fuels her determination to reclaim it.
Q: What is Valentina Shevchenko’s mindset going into the rematch with Alexa Grasso?
A: Shevchenko promises not to carry unnecessary anger or aggression into the fight but instead a renewed sense of purpose to eliminate Grasso at any cost.
Q: What does Valentina Shevchenko mean by her “doomsday” approach to the rematch?
A: Her “doomsday” approach means she’s solely focused on the fight with Grasso and isn’t thinking about what comes after. Her concentration and determination are entirely on the upcoming rematch.
Q: How long does Valentina Shevchenko plan to continue fighting?
A: Shevchenko plans to continue fighting as long as she feels like it. She’s determined to win back the belt and prove her resilience in the octagon.
More about UFC Rematch
- Valentina Shevchenko vs. Alexa Grasso Rematch
- UFC Flyweight Title Match
- Valentina Shevchenko’s UFC Career
- Alexa Grasso’s UFC Profile
