Valentina Shevchenko’s flyweight debut is set, and she’ll head into hostile territory for it!
Former UFC women’s bantamweight title challenger Valentina Shevchenko has a date set for her flyweight debut. In a statement to their official website, the UFC on Tuesday announced that Shevchenko will appear at UFC Belem, numerically UFC Fight Night 125. Opposite her that night in Brazil will be UFC newcomer Priscila Cachoeira.
Shevchenko (14-3) twice fought, and lost, against UFC bantamweight champ Amanda Nunes. The first bout took place in 2016 at UFC 198, prior to Nunes winning the UFC title at UFC 200 that Summer. Following back-to-back wins against Holly Holm and Julianna Pena, Shevchenko earned herself another shot at Nunes, this time with the title on the line. However, she came up short again at UFC 215 this past October, losing by split decision.
The losses to Nunes are Shevchenko’s only two losses in the UFC. With a third fight unlikely, dropping down made sense for ‘Bullet’ — who now becomes an instant contender at 125lbs.
Priscila Cachoeira, meanwhile, is an undefeated Brazilian who has finishes in four of her eight professional bouts.
UFC Belem takes place on February 3 at the Manguerinho Gymnasium in Belem, Brazil. The card airs on Fox Sports 1.
