Valentina Shevchenko, known as "Bullet," is one of the most dominant forces in women’s mixed martial arts (MMA). With a blend of precision striking, lethal submissions, and an indomitable fighting spirit, Shevchenko has secured her place among the elite in the sport. Her career is decorated with numerous titles, accolades, and memorable finishes that have left fans and opponents alike in awe. In this article, we'll dive into the top finishes of Valentina Shevchenko's career, breaking down each fight to understand how she has maintained her reign at the top of the UFC's women’s flyweight division.
Born in Kyrgyzstan on March 7, 1988, Valentina Shevchenko is a martial artist with a diverse background in Muay Thai, kickboxing, and Judo. She began training in taekwondo at the age of five and later expanded her skill set to include boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. With a professional kickboxing record of 56-2, Shevchenko transitioned to MMA, where she quickly made a name for herself with her well-rounded skills and fight IQ.
Shevchenko made her UFC debut in 2015, and her rise to the top of the women’s flyweight division was swift and decisive. Her striking accuracy, combined with her ability to dictate the pace of a fight, has led to numerous victories, many of which ended in spectacular finishes. Now, let’s explore some of these unforgettable moments in detail.
1. Valentina Shevchenko vs. Priscila Cachoeira (UFC Fight Night 125) - Submission (Rear-Naked Choke), Round 2
In February 2018, Valentina Shevchenko made her flyweight debut against Priscila Cachoeira, and the fight was nothing short of a masterclass in domination. From the opening bell, Shevchenko imposed her will on Cachoeira, showcasing her superior grappling and striking.
Breakdown: Shevchenko immediately took control of the fight with a quick takedown, followed by a relentless ground-and-pound that left Cachoeira with little chance to recover. Shevchenko's precision and control were on full display as she landed elbows and punches with pinpoint accuracy. By the second round, after an exhaustive barrage of strikes, Shevchenko transitioned seamlessly into a rear-naked choke, forcing the tap and marking her entry into the flyweight division with a resounding statement.
2. Valentina Shevchenko vs. Jessica Eye (UFC 238) - KO (Head Kick), Round 2
One of the most iconic finishes in women’s MMA history, Shevchenko’s knockout of Jessica Eye at UFC 238 is often replayed as a highlight of her career. Coming off her first title defense, Shevchenko faced Eye in June 2019, in what was expected to be a competitive matchup.
Breakdown: Shevchenko controlled the first round with her superior striking and grappling, weakening Eye with body kicks that set the stage for the finish. In the second round, Shevchenko landed one of the most devastating head kicks in UFC history. Timing the kick perfectly, Shevchenko connected flush with Eye’s head, knocking her out cold instantly. The precision and power of the kick solidified Shevchenko’s reputation as one of the most dangerous strikers in the sport.
3. Valentina Shevchenko vs. Katlyn Chookagian (UFC 247) - TKO (Elbows and Punches), Round 3
At UFC 247 in February 2020, Valentina Shevchenko defended her flyweight title against Katlyn Chookagian in a fight that demonstrated her ability to adapt and finish opponents with surgical precision.
Breakdown: Throughout the fight, Shevchenko displayed a masterclass in striking, using her footwork and angles to keep Chookagian off-balance. Shevchenko mixed her attacks with body kicks, jabs, and spinning back fists that kept Chookagian on the defensive. In the third round, Shevchenko secured a takedown and moved into a crucifix position, trapping Chookagian’s arms. From there, she unleashed a barrage of elbows and punches, forcing the referee to step in and stop the fight. This finish showcased Shevchenko's ability to exploit her opponent’s weaknesses and end fights with ruthless efficiency.
4. Valentina Shevchenko vs. Jéssica Andrade (UFC 261) - TKO (Elbows), Round 2
At UFC 261 in April 2021, Valentina Shevchenko faced Jéssica Andrade, a former strawweight champion known for her aggressive style and knockout power. Many believed Andrade would pose a serious threat to Shevchenko’s reign, but the fight proved otherwise.
Breakdown: Shevchenko dominated Andrade with her superior grappling, repeatedly taking her down and controlling her on the ground. Andrade, known for her strength and resilience, found herself overwhelmed by Shevchenko’s technique and power. In the second round, Shevchenko secured a takedown and quickly transitioned to a crucifix position, similar to her fight with Chookagian. From there, she rained down elbows, leaving Andrade defenseless and forcing the referee to stop the fight. This performance was a testament to Shevchenko’s versatility and ability to dominate elite-level opponents in every aspect of the game.
5. Valentina Shevchenko vs. Lauren Murphy (UFC 266) - TKO (Punches), Round 4
In September 2021, Shevchenko defended her flyweight title for the sixth time against Lauren Murphy at UFC 266. The fight was yet another display of Shevchenko’s dominance in the division.
Breakdown: Shevchenko controlled the fight from the outset, using her superior striking and movement to frustrate Murphy. Shevchenko’s ability to mix up her attacks, from body kicks to spinning back fists, kept Murphy on the defensive for most of the fight. In the fourth round, Shevchenko landed a devastating combination that rocked Murphy, followed by a flurry of punches that forced the referee to step in and stop the fight. This finish was another example of Shevchenko’s ability to systematically dismantle her opponents before delivering the finishing blow.
Valentina Shevchenko’s career is a testament to what happens when exceptional talent meets relentless dedication. Her ability to finish fights in such devastating fashion has made her one of the most feared and respected fighters in MMA history.
Whether it’s through precision striking, lethal submissions, or ground-and-pound, Shevchenko has consistently shown that she is a complete fighter with no visible weaknesses. As she continues her reign in the UFC, fans and opponents alike will continue to witness the mastery of one of the greatest fighters of all time.
Valentina Shevchenko’s finishes are not just wins; they are statements—powerful reminders of why she is called "Bullet" and why she remains at the pinnacle of the sport.