Valentina Shevchenko’s coach reveals injury behind ‘long’ UFC hiatus

Valentina Shevchenko vacated her UFC women's flyweight title due to shoulder and back ligament injuries that require an extended recovery period, her coach Pavel Fedotov revealed. The champion was scheduled to defend against Natalia Silva at UFC 332 on October 3 but withdrew to avoid aggravating the damage.

Fedotov disclosed the injury details via Telegram, stating: "We were supposed to fight on Oct. 3 against Natalia Silva, but due to an injury to the ligaments in the shoulder and back, we decided not to push things and postpone the fight. Given that the recovery will take a long time, we've made the decision to temporarily vacate the belt and once she recovers, she will fight for it again."

Shevchenko last competed in November 2025, when she successfully defended her title against Weili Zhang. The UFC has moved forward with Silva and Cong Wang competing for the vacant flyweight championship in Salt Lake City. Shevchenko's decision to relinquish the belt rather than risk further injury reflects a cautious approach to recovery, though she has signaled an intent to reclaim the title once healthy.