Former champion Valentina Shevchenko warns new UFC flyweight titleholder Natalia Silva to keep her belt warm.
Natalia Silva captured the vacant Ultimate Fighting Championship gold on Saturday night at UFC 332 in Salt Lake City, Utah, defeating Wang Cong via unanimous decision after five competitive rounds. The victory at the Delta Center extended her winning streak to 15 fights while keeping her undefeated through nine Octagon appearances, according to information published by mmamania.
Following the championship bout, the division's former queen, Valentina Shevchenko, delivered a swift warning to the newly crowned winner. Shevchenko had previously relinquished the 125-pound title due to a long-term injury before she could defend it against Silva, according to information published by mmamania.
Despite the vacated title and the subsequent change in championship plans, Silva has made it clear that she refuses to sit on the sidelines waiting for a recovery timeline. The Brazilian contender intends to stay active and defend her belt against any opponent offered by the organization, according to information published by mmamania.
Natalia Silva claims vacant UFC flyweight gold
At UFC 332 inside the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, Natalia Silva earned the vacant women's flyweight championship by defeating Wang Cong via unanimous decision. The judges scored the bout 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46 in favor of the Brazilian fighter. This stellar performance extended her impressive winning streak to 15 victories.
Valentina Shevchenko relinquishes title due to injury
Valentina Shevchenko was originally scheduled to defend her championship against Natalia Silva at UFC 332. However, lingering injuries to her shoulder and back forced her out of the matchup. To prevent the division from remaining frozen during her extended recovery, the former champion chose to vacate the strap.
Shevchenko issues social media warning to new champion
Shortly after the conclusion of UFC 332, Valentina Shevchenko took to Twitter to congratulate Natalia Silva on her victory. While praising the new titleholder as a deserving martial artist, Shevchenko added a fierce warning that she is coming back for the belt as soon as she is fully healthy.
Silva plans active championship reign
Despite the incoming threat from the former titleholder, Natalia Silva does not plan to act as a placeholder champion. During the UFC 332 post-fight press conference, she confirmed her intention to remain active. Silva plans to defend her newly won title against whoever the Ultimate Fighting Championship puts in front of her next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the UFC flyweight championship at UFC 332?
Natalia Silva captured the vacant UFC women's flyweight championship by defeating Wang Cong via unanimous decision at UFC 332 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Why did Valentina Shevchenko vacate her UFC title?
Valentina Shevchenko relinquished her 125-pound championship because long-term shoulder and back injuries forced her out of her scheduled title defense against Natalia Silva.
Will Natalia Silva wait for Valentina Shevchenko to return?
No, Natalia Silva stated that she will not sit on the sidelines waiting for Shevchenko and plans to stay active defending her title against any opponent.
