Silva locks #1 contender spot, targets Shevchenko

Natalia Silva has locked in the #1 contender spot in women's flyweight after her victory over Rose Namajunas on the UFC 324 main card, earning a shot at champion Valentina Shevchenko. Previously at #2, Silva's rise comes amid Shevchenko's recent defense against Weili Zhang at UFC 322. This matchup offers a fresh stylistic challenge for 'Bullet,' pitting Silva's grappling against Shevchenko's elite kickboxing. The first 2026 rankings update reflects UFC 324's impact, heightening anticipation for the division's next title fight.