Valentina “Bullet” Shevchenko was able to execute a wrestling-focused game plan last Saturday night at UFC 306, effectively controlling the the defending champion Alexa Grasso throughout five rounds. Shevchenko secured a dominant unanimous decision victory, and was able to reclaim the flyweight title.
Former Women’s Flyweight Champion Alexa Grasso Shows Grace in Defeat to Valentina Shevchenko
Initially, Grasso managed to dethrone Shevchenko in their first meeting, following the latter’s dominant reign of five straight years. Their second bout concluded in a controversial draw, allowing Alexa to retain her title until their anticipated rematch in 2024. As a proud Mexican nationalist, Grasso hoped this third fight—which the UFC had scheduled on Mexican Independence Day—would serve as the perfect conclusion to their trilogy. Regrettably, fate had other plans.
Despite the loss, Grasso accepted defeat gracefully and congratulated her opponent before leaving the octagon, visibly frustrated.
Alexa posted on her Instagram the following day with this statement: (translated from Spanish)
“I want to thank you for all your support 🤍
Alexa Grasso – Instagram
It wasn’t the night I wanted.
I’ll get back to training and I promise the next fight will be much better 🦾
I love you all” 🙏🏼❤️
Echoes of Similarity?
As for the rivalry between Alexa and Valentina, it seems the score isn’t quite settled. Some even draw parallels to the four flyweight title fights between Brandon Moreno and Deiveson Figueiredo from 2020 to 2023. This prompts questions from fans, as to whether or not we will get to see a “quadrilogy” fight to finally settle things between “Bullet” and Grasso.
Alexa’s setback makes one thing abundantly clear.
It isn’t just a belt that makes someone a champion. It’s the mindset, the grit, and the passion for the sport. It’s how you handle your defeats, and continue moving forward despite adversity.
Alexa Grasso personifies a champion, and she’ll forever hold that title in our eyes.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
