Valentina Shevchenko is urging the UFC to sign Radzhabali Shaidullaev, the current Rizin champion in the 66-kilogram division. The 25-year-old fighter holds an undefeated professional record of 19-0. Shevchenko's endorsement carries weight given her status as a former UFC champion and top-level fighter. The post author expressed support for Shevchenko's recommendation. No indication has been given whether the UFC has shown interest in signing Shaidullaev or if negotiations are underway.
Valentina Shevchenko is publicly calling on the UFC to sign Radzhabali Shaidullaev, the reigning Rizin champion at 66 kilograms, adding her voice to what could become a notable recruitment conversation in the sport.
Shevchenko, the current UFC Women's Flyweight champion, needs little introduction when it comes to lending credibility to a fighter's reputation. The 38-year-old from Kyrgyzstan holds a professional record of 26-4-1 and has long been regarded as one of the most complete mixed martial artists in the world. Training out of Tiger Muay Thai, the southpaw lands 3.14 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy and adds 2.62 takedowns per 15 minutes, a combination that has made her one of the most technically rounded fighters on the UFC roster. Her endorsement of any prospect carries genuine weight.
Shaidullaev, 25 years old and undefeated at 19-0, currently holds the Rizin championship in the 66-kilogram division. His unblemished record and championship status in one of the world's most prominent MMA promotions outside the UFC make him an intriguing candidate for a roster addition.
Why it matters
- Shaidullaev's 19-0 record and Rizin title suggest he is operating at a high level internationally
- Shevchenko's standing as a reigning UFC champion gives her public endorsement unusual visibility
- A potential signing would add depth and competition to a division that benefits from global talent pipelines
- No indication has emerged that the UFC has responded to the call or that any negotiations are underway
