In the co-main of UFC 285 we have a title match in the women's flyweight division between the reigning champion, Valentina Shevchenko, and the contender, Alexa Grasso. Shevchenko has been dominating the division for years, but Grasso is determined to become the new champion with the success she has found as of late.
Valentina Shevchenko has been a force to be reckoned with in the UFC women's flyweight division. Shevchenko has been the reigning champion since December 2018 and has successfully defended her title five times. Shevchenko's striking skills are undeniable, as she holds a black belt in taekwondo, a gold medal in kickboxing, and has an impressive 10-3 record in MMA. She is also a skilled grappler, holding a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Alexa Grasso, on the other hand, is a rising star in the flyweight division. The Mexican fighter has a 15-3 record in MMA and is on a 4 fight win streak currently. Grasso's striking skills are also impressive, as she holds a blue belt in taekwondo and has a background in boxing. Her ground game is not as strong as Shevchenko's, but she has shown improvement in her takedown defense and jiu-jitsu. Grasso's striking skills are on par with Shevchenko's, and she has the speed and agility to keep up with the champion. If Grasso can avoid Shevchenko's takedowns, clinching, and ground game, she has a chance of outscoring her on the feet with her speed and tendency of throwing straight shots.
However, Shevchenko's experience, strength and overall skill set give her a significant advantage over Grasso. Shevchenko's striking is more technical, and she has a better understanding of distance and timing. She is also an excellent counter-striker, which could be problematic for Grasso.
Both fighters have their strengths and weaknesses. Shevchenko's biggest strength is her striking and ground game, while her weakness could be her tendency to be patient and wait for her opponent to make a mistake. Grasso's strength is her striking and agility, while her weakness could be her lack of ground game compared to Shevchenko.
In conclusion expect this fight to be drawn out as both fighters try to execute their game plans. Grasso's gonna be outside the pocket for the majority of the fight as she wont be looking to rush things with her lack of power and the counter striking of the Champion. Overall I like this fight to go over 3.5 RDs and Valentina Shevchenko to win via decision.
