Fight By Fight Preview | VeChain UFC 322: Della Maddalena vs Makhachev
“`html
Shevchenko Welcomes Zhang to Flyweight in UFC 322 Showdown
Table of Contents
Two former champions will collide at UFC 322 as Valentina Shevchenko defends her flyweight title against Zhang Weili, marking Zhang’s debut in the 125-pound division.
Published: November 10, 2025 17:58:34
The matchup: Shevchenko vs. Zhang
UFC 322, scheduled for June 15, 2024, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, features a highly anticipated bout between reigning flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko and former strawweight champion Zhang Weili. This fight is particularly significant as it marks Zhang’s move up in weight class, challenging Shevchenko for the title. UFC.com provides a detailed fight preview.
shevchenko’s Reign
Valentina Shevchenko (25-4-1) has been a dominant force in the flyweight division. Her recent victory over Manon Fiorot at UFC Fight Night: Montreal on March 2, 2024, was a unanimous decision, showcasing her resilience and skill. ESPN reports on Shevchenko’s win over Fiorot. She has a record of 10 wins and 1 draw in 12 flyweight title fights, solidifying her status as one of the greatest female mixed martial artists of all time.
Watch Shevchenko vs. Murphy: Shevchenko vs Murphy
Zhang’s strawweight Dominance and Move to Flyweight
Zhang Weili (26-3) previously reigned as the strawweight champion, reclaiming the title with a decisive victory over Carla Esparza at UFC 281 on November 12, 2022, in New York City. MMA Fighting details Zhang’s victory over Esparza. She successfully defended her strawweight title against Amanda Lemos, Yan Xiaonan, and Tatiana Suarez, demonstrating her well-rounded skillset and power. Her decision to move to flyweight presents a new challenge and an opportunity to become a two-division champion.
Watch Zhang vs. Jedrzejczyk: Zhang vs. Jedrzejczyk
What’s at Stake
for Shevchenko, this fight represents another opportunity to cement her legacy as the flyweight queen. A win would further solidify her dominance and perhaps open the door for future superfights. For Zhang, the stakes are equally high. A victory would not only earn her a second UFC title but also establish her as a true force across multiple weight classes. The outcome of this fight will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the future of both the flyweight and strawweight divisions.