Valentina Shevchenko “ready for anyone” following destructive win over Lauren Murphy at UFC 266
UFC women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko says she is “ready for anyone” following a destructive win over Lauren Murphy at UFC 266.
Shevchenko improved to a perfect 8-0 as a flyweight with a fourth-round TKO win over Murphy at this past Saturday’s UFC 266 event. Not only did Shevchenko control the striking range on the feet, but she was also able to get Murphy down to the ground at will as she put together an incredible performance for her sixth successful title defense. It’s now starting to get to the point where the UFC matchmakers are struggling to find fresh challengers for Shevchenko, who has run through everyone at flyweight without breaking a sweat.
Speaking to ESPN’s Megan Olivi following UFC 266, Shevchenko was asked what name she has in mind for her next opponent. As far as Shevchenko goes, she says she is open to fighting anyone the UFC asks her to.
“I’m open for anyone. It’s kind of like, I never was picking my opponent, I was just ready to fight anyone. I’m here. No matter’s who’s next, I’m here. I’m ready for anyone,” Shevchenko said.
Looking at the UFC rankings, Shevchenko has already defeated the No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 ranked contenders at 125lbs. The No. 5 contender is Cynthia Calvillo, but she lost via TKO to Jessica Andrade at UFC 266 and won’t be considered for a title shot. Looking down at the top-10, there are fighters such as Joanne Calderwood, Viviane Araujo, and Taila Santos who Shevchenko hasn’t fought yet, but while they are good fighters, it’s hard to see them giving the champ any issues. At this point, it feels like the only challenge left for Shevchenko in the UFC is to move up to bantamweight and fight rival Amanda Nunes for the third time.
Who do you want to see Valentina Shevchenko fight next after smashing Lauren Murphy at UFC 266?
