Valentina Shevchenko warns Natalia Silva: "I'm coming soon for my belt"
Valentina Shevchenko did not wait long. A few hours after Natalia Silva was crowned at UFC 332, the former flyweight champion congratulated the Brazilian on social media, then told her to keep the belt warm. Shevchenko, 38, gave up her title in early September through injury. Her return is expected in 2027.
Key takeaways
- Valentina Shevchenko congratulated Natalia Silva on her title, then warned her she will come back soon for her belt.
- Shevchenko, 38, gave up the flyweight title in early September through injury. Her return is expected in 2027, according to Yahoo Sports.
- Dana White wants Silva, unbeaten in 9 UFC fights, to stay active in the meantime.
Valentina Shevchenko congratulates, then warns
The message
Right after the judges’ decision in Salt Lake City, Shevchenko wrote that the title was well deserved and that she was pleased to see the belt held by a deserving martial artist.
The warning
She added that Silva should not get too comfortable and should keep the belt warm, because she is coming back for it soon.
Why it matters
Shevchenko did not lose her title in the cage. Until she returns, Silva’s reign will be read through that absence.
A former champion on the sidelines
The injury
Shevchenko gave up her belt in early September. She has shoulder and back ligament injuries, as we wrote when she withdrew. Her coach spoke of at least 8 months out, the UFC of a year.
The timeline
Yahoo Sports places her return in 2027. No date and no fight have been announced.
Her path
At 38, she has held the division’s title 2 times and fought 13 title fights in a row since 2018, according to Yahoo Sports.
But don't get too comfortable—keep it warm, I'm coming soon for my belt!
What it changes for Natalia Silva
Staying active
At the press conference, Dana White said he thinks Silva should be active. The Brazilian has 9 wins in 9 UFC fights, including Jessica Andrade, Alexa Grasso and Rose Namajunas.
The other contenders
While Shevchenko is out, the names of Alexa Grasso and the winner of Erin Blanchfield vs Jasmine Jasudavicius come up for a 1st defense. The UFC has announced nothing.
Follow the division
Silva’s and Shevchenko’s profiles, their records and our women’s flyweight rating are in the FightHub app.
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