Natalia Silva Criticizes Valentina Shevchenko's Reaction to UFC 332 Title Win
Natalia Silva, the new UFC women's flyweight champion, took issue with Valentina Shevchenko's lukewarm congratulations following Silva's victory at UFC 332.
Silva secured the vacant flyweight title by unanimous decision against Wang Cong last weekend. Shevchenko, who had to vacate the belt due to injuries and was originally slated to headline UFC 332, watched Silva receive her former title. While Shevchenko offered congratulations, she also suggested Silva "keep the belt warm" until her anticipated return to challenge for it.
Speaking to MMA Fighting, Silva addressed Shevchenko's remarks. "Thank you to her. It's nice she watched the fight and the division," Silva stated. "But her first mistake was calling the belt 'hers.' The belt is mine now. I'm the champion. I fought for it and earned it."
Addressing the "keep the belt warm" comment, Silva added, "She doesn't need to worry. I'll take very good care of it. She wasn't keeping it warm herself, fighting once a year. I'm not worried about her anymore. I wanted to fight her when she was the champion. Now, it doesn't matter if it's her or someone else. I am the champion."
Shevchenko's return to the octagon remains uncertain as she has not competed since defeating Zhang Weili at UFC 322 last year.
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