Natalia Silva Tipped for Early 2027 Return Against Valentina Shevchenko

Newly crowned UFC flyweight champion Natalia Silva is reportedly being considered for her first title defense against former champion Valentina Shevchenko. The bout is tentatively targeted for early 2027, according to MMA Mania.

Silva (17-5-1) captured the vacant 125-pound title last weekend at UFC 332 in Salt Lake City, defeating Wang Cong via unanimous decision in the main event. This marked her third consecutive victory in the UFC.

Shevchenko (23-4-1) previously held the flyweight championship for over five years before losing it to Alexa Grasso in September 2023. Shevchenko most recently competed at UFC 329, where she secured a split decision win over Karine Gevorgyan.

While the matchup is being discussed, MMA Mania notes that the UFC could opt for a different direction for Silva's inaugural title defense.

Source: MMA Mania.