After Valentina Shevchenko’s dominant performance at UFC 306, where she reclaimed the women’s flyweight title from Alexa Grasso via a unanimous decision (50-45 on all scorecards), the question now turns to what’s next for the Kyrgyzstani-Peruvian champion. Shevchenko’s grappling and ground control proved too much for Grasso, showcasing her ability to dictate the pace of the fight and regain her position at the top of the division. With her return to the flyweight throne, Shevchenko faces a series of intriguing matchups, all of which could further solidify her legacy or test her evolving skills. Here are the top contenders likely to face Shevchenko next:

1. Manon Fiorot

The French standout Manon Fiorot, currently ranked #2 in the UFC women’s flyweight division, has been on an impressive run, including a unanimous decision win over Erin Blanchfield at UFC on ESPN in March 2024. Fiorot boasts a professional record of 12-1, with a well-rounded skill set that includes powerful striking and solid decision victories against top-tier opponents like Rose Namajunas and Jennifer Maia. Her six knockout wins underline her dangerous striking game, which could provide an intriguing challenge for Shevchenko. Fiorot has been steadily rising through the ranks, and a title shot seems inevitable given her dominant form and status as a top contender.

2. Winner of Rose Namajunas vs. Erin Blanchfield

Scheduled for UFC Edmonton, the co-main event between former two-time strawweight champion Rose Namajunas and rising star Erin Blanchfield could determine the next contender for Shevchenko’s flyweight belt. Namajunas, now competing at flyweight, has shown flashes of brilliance, including wins over Amanda Ribas and Tracy Cortez in 2024, though she did suffer a loss to Manon Fiorot in her flyweight debut. Namajunas’ striking and submission skills could create a compelling stylistic matchup against Shevchenko. Meanwhile, Erin Blanchfield, ranked #3 in the division, is an impressive grappler who has already secured wins over top names like Jéssica Andrade and Taila Santos. Blanchfield’s ground game could pose a serious threat to Shevchenko’s grappling dominance. The winner of this fight would be a formidable opponent for the reigning champion.

3. Natalia Silva

Another strong option for Shevchenko’s next title defense is Brazil’s Natalia Silva, ranked #6 in the flyweight division. Silva has built an 18-5-1 record, with recent victories over Viviane Araújo and Jéssica Andrade. Her Fight of the Night performance against Andrade in September 2024 was a testament to her striking versatility and endurance. Silva’s combination of knockout power, with five wins via KO, and submission prowess, having secured seven wins by submission, makes her a dynamic fighter capable of matching Shevchenko in multiple areas. As Silva continues to climb the ranks, a title shot may be in her near future, especially given her momentum and ability to deliver high-octane performances.