The Champion: Valentina Shevchenko
Valentina Shevchenko, with a professional record of 24-4-1, remains one of the most decorated fighters in MMA history. Known for her precision striking and versatile skill set, Shevchenko dominated the flyweight division for years before experiencing setbacks against Alexa Grasso.
Despite losing her belt Grasso in 2023, Shevchenko retained the title in late 2024. Her wins over top fighters like Joanna Jędrzejczyk, Jessica Eye, Alexa Grasso, and Liz Carmouche highlight her ability to compete against the best. Her Muay Thai and kickboxing backgrounds, coupled with her grappling proficiency, make her one of the most complete fighters in the UFC.
While Shevchenko is expected to remain in the title picture, the emergence of new contenders like Manon Fiorot and Natalia Silva could pose challenges to her holding the belt in 2025.
The Favorite: Manon Fiorot (#2)
Manon Fiorot, a French standout with a record of 12-1-0, has quickly risen through the ranks of the flyweight division. Known for her striking prowess and excellent takedown defense, Fiorot has proven herself against elite competition, including victories over Katlyn Chookagian, Jennifer Maia, and Mayra Bueno Silva.
Fiorot’s ability to control the pace of her fights and her diverse striking arsenal make her a formidable threat to any opponent. As a rising star, she has shown she can handle high-pressure situations, positioning her as the favorite to end 2025 as the UFC Women’s Flyweight Champion.
If Fiorot continues her upward trajectory, her combination of striking precision and defensive acumen could lead her to dethrone the division’s elite.
The Underdog: Natalia Silva (#5)
Natalia Silva, a Brazilian fighter with a record of 17-5-1, is riding an impressive 11-fight win streak. Silva’s well-rounded skill set, blending striking and grappling, has allowed her to dominate opponents and rise to the #5 spot in the division rankings.
Silva’s recent wins over Jasmine Jasudavicius and Viviane Araujo have solidified her status as a rising contender. Her ability to adapt her game plan and exploit her opponents’ weaknesses makes her a dangerous challenger, even against more experienced fighters.
While she is considered an underdog to end 2025 as champion, Silva’s momentum and continued development make her a dark horse in the division. If she can maintain her winning streak and secure a few key victories, she could shock the MMA world by claiming the title.
