Valentina Shevchenko has publicly urged the UFC to sign Rajabali Shaidullaev, the current Rizin champion in the 66-kilogram division. Shaidullaev, 25 years old, holds an undefeated record of 19-0. The post expresses support for Shevchenko's recommendation. No additional context was provided about whether UFC has shown interest in Shaidullaev or if negotiations are underway. The brief announcement focuses solely on Shevchenko's endorsement of the young Rizin champion.
Valentina Shevchenko has publicly called on the UFC to sign Rajabali Shaidullaev, the reigning Rizin champion at 66 kilograms, making a direct appeal on behalf of the undefeated prospect.
Shevchenko, the current UFC women's flyweight champion, carries considerable weight when it comes to fighter recommendations. The 38-year-old Kyrgyzstan native holds a professional record of 26-4-1 and has long been regarded as one of the most complete fighters in the sport. Fighting out of Tiger Muay Thai in a southpaw stance, she stands 165 centimeters tall with a 168-centimeter reach. Her technical precision is reflected in a striking accuracy of 52 percent and a volume of 3.14 significant strikes landed per minute, while she also contributes on the ground with 2.62 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Shaidullaev, 25 years old, enters this conversation with a spotless 19-0 record and the Rizin title at 66 kilograms to his name. No details have emerged regarding whether the UFC has shown any interest or whether any negotiations are underway.
Why it matters
- Shevchenko's endorsement puts a public spotlight on Shaidullaev at a time when the UFC continues to scout top talent from rival promotions
- A 19-0 record combined with a Rizin championship makes Shaidullaev one of the more compelling unsigned prospects in his weight class
- How the UFC responds — or does not respond — could signal how aggressively the promotion intends to pursue fighters currently under Rizin contracts
