Fight fans are in store for an old-fashioned “loser leaves the promotion” match between Valentina Shevchenko and Manon Fiorot, with tension already building from a heated war of words.
Fiorot, eager for her shot at the women’s flyweight title, is done waiting. She last fought in March, defeating Erin Blanchfield, and many fans believe this victory should have earned her a title opportunity. However, the title picture has been stalled due to the ongoing rivalry between Shevchenko and Alexa Grasso.
Grasso claimed the title from Shevchenko in early 2023, only for their rematch at the end of the year to end in a split draw. The UFC capitalized on the rivalry, having them coach opposing teams on The Ultimate Fighter, culminating in a September fight where Shevchenko reclaimed the belt.
Growing impatient, Fiorot took to Twitter, writing, “Stop making people wait! Let’s do it soon enough so I can send you to retirement and move on.”
Shevchenko replied with a challenge: “You lose, you retire. Deal?!! Ill-mannered first-grader.” Fiorot responded swiftly, “Deal. I’ll take you seriously when you’ve signed the contract, damn teacher’s pet.”
