Natalia Silva vs. Valentina Shevchenko odds: UFC champ opens as underdog

Newly crowned UFC women's flyweight champion Natalia Silva has opened as an underdog in early betting lines for a potential rematch with two-time titleholder Valentina Shevchenko. Silva captured the vacant 125-pound belt by defeating Cong Wang via unanimous decision in the UFC 332 main event on Saturday in Salt Lake City, with all three judges scoring the bout 30-27.

Bookmaker BetOnline has posted odds for Silva's next potential opponent, listing her at +165 against Shevchenko's -190—a significant flip from her odds against fellow former champion Alexa Grasso, against whom Silva sits as a -300 favorite. Grasso has notched back-to-back victories over Maycee Barber and Manon Fiorot since losing to Silva in May 2025 at UFC 315.

Shevchenko vacated her title due to injury but wasted no time making her intentions clear following Silva's coronation. The Russian star took to social media to congratulate the new champion while issuing a pointed message: "Well deserved, Natalia! Congratulations! It's my pleasure to know that UFC Champion's belt is now holding deserving martial artist - such as you are! But don't get too comfortable— keep it warm, I'm coming soon for my belt!"

The odds reflect the respect oddsmakers hold for Shevchenko's pedigree and striking prowess, despite Silva's proven ability to win fights and secure a title. A title unification bout between the two remains one of the division's most compelling storylines, with Shevchenko's return from injury and Silva's hunger as a new champion setting the stage for a potential classic.