Natalia Silva’s coach makes bold claim about UFC 332 title fight

Natalia Silva's coach Carlos Costa expressed confidence that his fighter will capture the vacant UFC women's flyweight title in a headline bout against Cong Wang at UFC 332 on October 3 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City. The matchup materialized after champion Valentina Shevchenko vacated the crown due to injury.

Costa revealed that Silva's camp had spent months preparing specifically for Shevchenko, focusing heavily on takedown defense and distance control. When Wang replaced the champion on short notice, the team pivoted their entire training approach. "We completely changed the focus of our training. It was a huge surprise to us, especially since Cong was ranked No. 6," Costa told Sherdog.

Despite the change, Costa expects a striking showcase between two of the division's best strikers. "In my opinion, Natalia and Cong are the two best strikers in the division," he said. "I'm sure that once these girls put on a show in the Octagon, the public's perception will change dramatically." Costa declined to predict the round but expressed certainty: "I just know victory is coming. Natalia is ready to become the first Brazilian female champion at 125 pounds."

Silva (20-5-1) arrives on a 14-fight UFC winning streak with no losses inside the promotion. Wang (10-1) enters on a four-fight streak, most recently defeating Tracy Cortez by unanimous decision.