UFC flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko has publicly advocated for the promotion to sign Rizin bantamweight champion Rajabali Shaidullaev. The 25-year-old fighter holds an undefeated 19-0 professional record and currently competes at 66 kilograms in Rizin. Shevchenko's endorsement carries significant weight given her status as a champion and veteran of the sport. Shaidullaev's perfect record and championship status in a major Asian promotion make him an intriguing prospect. The post did not indicate whether there have been any discussions between Shaidullaev and the UFC.
UFC women's flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko has publicly called on the promotion to bring Rizin bantamweight champion Rajabali Shaidullaev into the organization, adding her voice to what could become a notable recruitment conversation.
Shevchenko, nicknamed "Bullet," carries enormous credibility when she speaks about talent. The 38-year-old Kyrgyzstan-born fighter holds a 26-4-1 professional record and has long been regarded as one of the most technically complete fighters in the sport. Fighting out of Tiger Muay Thai in a southpaw stance, she stands five-foot-five with a 66-inch reach and lands 3.14 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy, while also averaging 2.62 takedowns per 15 minutes — a blend of skills that reflects her championship pedigree.
The fighter she is advocating for, Rajabali Shaidullaev, is 25 years old and carries a perfect 19-0 professional record. He currently holds the Rizin bantamweight title, competing at 66 kilograms in one of Asia's most prominent MMA promotions. His undefeated mark and championship status in a credible international organization make him a name the UFC's talent scouts would likely be aware of regardless of any public endorsement.
No indication of formal talks between Shaidullaev and the UFC has emerged from the post Shevchenko made.
Why it matters
- A reigning UFC champion publicly endorsing a prospect is an uncommon form of external pressure on the promotion's recruitment process.
- Shaidullaev's 19-0 record and Rizin title give him a strong foundation of competitive credibility heading into any potential negotiations.
- The bantamweight and flyweight divisions both have active title pictures, meaning a proven undefeated prospect would enter a highly competitive landscape.
