One of the biggest upsets of 2023 sent shockwaves through the UFC world when Alexa Grasso submitted the dominant force, Valentina Shevchenko, back in February at UFC 285.
Now, the stage is set for a thrilling rematch between the two incredible fighters on September 16th, 2023, at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Renowned UFC analyst Michael Bisping, known for his no-nonsense approach, is boldly backing Grasso to retain her title against the formidable Shevchenko.
“It might sound crazy, but I think Alexa is the better fighter. That doesn’t sound crazy to me at all. I thought Alexa looked really good. Maybe Shevchenko’s best days are behind her. Maybe Alexa Grasso is just a better fighter. It certainly wasn’t a fluke” Bisping
Shevchenko, renowned for her record-breaking title defense streak, was left stunned by Grasso’s exceptional performance.
In UFC women’s history, the “Bullet” has held the championship and successfully defended it more times than anyone in a single weight class. However, Grasso had other ideas and put a halt to Shevchenko’s unprecedented dominance.
As such, Bisping believes adjustments need to be made.
“I’m a fan of Valentina, so this is not an insult,” Bisping clarified. “She was a dominant champion, but sometimes you start getting into the mindset where you become too passive, maybe a bit too defensive. She needs to reclaim that hungry killer instinct and be the aggressor rather than always countering. But who am I to critique Shevchenko after the incredible career she’s had?”
Will Alexa Grasso prove her first victory was no fluke and solidify her claim to the title? Or will Valentina Shevchenko show the world that she still possesses the fire and skill that made her an unrivaled champion?