Valentina Shevchenko has publicly urged the UFC to sign Rizin featherweight champion Rajabali Shaidullaev. The 25-year-old fighter holds an undefeated record of 19-0 and currently competes at 66 kilograms (approximately 145 pounds) in Rizin. Shevchenko's endorsement of the young prospect suggests she sees significant potential in the unbeaten champion. The post expresses support for Shevchenko's recommendation, indicating interest in seeing Shaidullaev compete on the UFC stage.
Valentina Shevchenko has publicly called on the UFC to sign Rizin featherweight champion Rajabali Shaidullaev, putting the spotlight on one of combat sports' most talked-about unbeaten prospects.
Shevchenko, the reigning UFC women's flyweight champion, made the endorsement publicly, lending considerable weight to the call given her standing in the sport. The 38-year-old from Kyrgyzstan carries a record of 26-4-1 and is widely regarded as one of the most complete fighters in MMA. Training out of Tiger Muay Thai, the southpaw champion stands five-foot-five with a 66-inch reach and averages 3.14 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy, while also contributing 2.62 takedowns per 15 minutes — a combination that has made her a dominant force in the flyweight division for years.
Shaidullaev, 25, holds a perfect 19-0 record and currently competes as the Rizin featherweight champion at 66 kilograms, roughly 145 pounds. His undefeated run in Rizin has drawn attention, and Shevchenko's vocal support signals she views him as a talent worthy of the UFC stage.
Why it matters
- An endorsement from an active UFC champion carries real promotional weight and can accelerate signing conversations between fighters and the organization.
- Shaidullaev's 19-0 record and Rizin title would likely place him among the more polished prospects to enter UFC featherweight or lightweight contention.
- The call reflects a broader pattern of UFC-caliber talent developing in Asian-based promotions, increasing cross-promotional interest.
