Valentina Shevchenko is set to make the first title defense of her second reign as the UFC women’s flyweight champion against the formidable challenger Manon Fiorot. This highly anticipated championship bout is scheduled for five rounds at UFC 315, taking place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec.
Shevchenko, boasting an impressive record of 24 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw (24-4-1 MMA, 13-3-1 UFC), held the title from 2018 to 2023, during which she made seven consecutive successful title defenses. However, her reign faced a setback when she was upset by Alexa Grasso at UFC 285. This loss was followed by a controversial split draw in their rematch, leading to a trilogy fight where Shevchenko reclaimed her title with a unanimous decision victory last September.
On the other side of the octagon, Manon Fiorot enters this title fight with a record of 12 wins and 1 loss (12-1 MMA, 7-0 UFC). Fiorot has been patiently waiting for her shot at the championship, having earned her title opportunity by defeating notable opponents such as Rose Namajunas in 2023 and Erin Blanchfield in March 2024. Fiorot’s rise in the ranks has been impressive, and she is now poised to challenge for the belt she has long coveted.
As the co-main event of UFC 315, Shevchenko and Fiorot are expected to make their walks to the octagon at approximately 11:45 p.m. ET. The entire UFC 315 fight card kicks off with early prelims at 6:30 p.m. ET, followed by prelims at 8 p.m. ET, and the pay-per-view main card starting at 10 p.m. ET.
In the lead-up to this clash, Shevchenko is viewed as a +114 underdog at Sportsbook, while Fiorot is the slight -134 favorite. This betting line reflects the respect Fiorot has garnered as a potential future champion, despite Shevchenko’s status as one of the most accomplished fighters in women’s MMA history.
Shevchenko’s fighting style is characterized by her precision striking and a strong wrestling background. Her striking accuracy stands at an impressive 52%, showcasing her ability to land significant strikes effectively. In contrast, Fiorot, known as "The Beast," has a striking accuracy of 41% and has demonstrated her own technical prowess through her recent victories.
As both fighters prepare for this championship bout, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Shevchenko’s experience in five-round title fights could be pivotal against Fiorot, who is entering her first championship bout. While Fiorot has shown her capability to control distance and pace, she will face a different level of pressure and intensity that comes with a title fight.
Fiorot’s recent unanimous decision victories over top-tier opponents highlight her endurance and skill, but she has yet to face a challenge as daunting as Shevchenko. The former champion’s ability to mix wrestling and striking effectively could give her the edge needed to retain her title.
Fans are eagerly awaiting this matchup, as it not only represents a clash of two elite fighters but also a significant moment in the women’s flyweight division. Will Shevchenko successfully defend her title and solidify her legacy, or will Fiorot rise to the occasion and claim the championship belt? The excitement is palpable as fight night approaches.
