Valentina Shevchenko On The Critics

“Most people don’t ask themselves what, how, or why. They simply repeat what they’re told. Journalists say things from their platforms, and many people just repeat it without thinking. In reality, they don’t truly feel that way. The phrase lives on only because it’s repeated without engaging the mind. First of all, the beautiful form that highlights physique and athleticism. A woman shows not only strength, but also grace. She controls her body and demonstrates complex, varied techniques. For example, spinning strikes — that’s very beautiful,” Shevchenko said

The Reality

Shevchenko’s argument holds significant weight. Her victory over Zhang was a masterclass in negating an explosive threat. Zhang is arguably the most powerful and dangerous striker in the history of the lower weight classes; for Shevchenko to nullify that power through “clinching and grappling stalemates” is actually a sign of elite defensive tactical awareness. For example, when Zhang attempted to close the distance with her signature blitzes, Valentina utilized a “counter-clinch” strategy, using her superior leverage and wrestling background to tie up Zhang’s arms and drain her gas tank.

And yet, the critics’ backlash is rooted in the fact that the UFC is a PPV-driven sport. While Shevchenko’s technical “stifling” of Zhang was effective, it lacked offensive output which gets fans on their side. The booing at UFC 322 was largely a reaction to the lack of “urgency.” Critics argue that as the champion and the “pound-for-pound” great, the onus is on Valentina to prove her dominance by finishing opponents or engaging in the action, rather than simply neutralizing it.