At UFC 332, Natalia Silva lastly received her palms on UFC gold after defeating Wang Cong in a back-and-forth contest. With the win, Silva turned simply the fourth undisputed champion within the historical past of the ladies’s flyweight division, which was launched in 2017.
The battle might not have delivered the identical wild motion as a few of the different bouts on the cardboard, however Silva put collectively a wise and composed efficiency. She relied on her velocity, distance administration, and kicking recreation to frustrate Cong all through the 25-minute battle.
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The title was up for grabs after Valentina Shevchenko vacated the belt following a again and shoulder harm. When the ultimate horn sounded, the judges scored the battle 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, all in Silva’s favor.
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Instantly after the bout, Silva made it clear that she needs to be an energetic champion somewhat than wait round for Shevchenko to recuperate from her accidents. Whereas Shevchenko is predicted to be Silva’s subsequent opponent, UFC CEO Dana White additionally suggested the Brazilian to remain energetic whereas holding the belt.
Silva had already overwhelmed three former champions, together with Rose Namajunas, Alexa Grasso, and Jessica Andrade on her option to changing into champion. Now, she seems able to welcome anybody who steps up for a shot at her newly received title.
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Valentina Shevchenko & Others React to Natalia Silva Turning into UFC Champion at UFC 332
The response to Silva’s victory was huge, with Shevchenko taking to X to congratulate the brand new champion. Nevertheless, the longtime former champion additionally warned Silva to not get too snug with the belt whereas she recovers.
She wrote, “Nicely deserved, Natalia! Congratulations! It is my pleasure to know that UFC Champion’s belt is now holding deserving martial artist – reminiscent of you’re ! However do not get too snug — preserve it heat, I am coming quickly for my belt!”
Shevchenko wasn’t the one outstanding determine within the MMA world to react to Silva’s triumph. A number of fighters, analysts, and different notable names had one thing to say in regards to the new champion’s spectacular victory. Here is what they needed to say.
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