Enough of football! My next prediction is the UFC Flyweight Championship bout between Valentina Shevchenko and Manon Fiorot. The bout billing is a UFC 315 co-main event to Belal Muhammad vs. J. Maddalena; another highly anticipated fight. This is much bigger than a title defense, as it could be a pivotal moment that will shape the future of both fighters. Thus, the stakes are high and present lots of interesting betting opportunities, which I am going to explore and share with you guys. The venue for the event is none other than the iconic Centre Bell, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Knowing this, let’s proceed to dissect the respective profiles.
Valentina Shevchenko – A Champion with Experience
Valentina Shevchenko AKA “Bullet” isn’t the Flyweight champion for no reason! She’s worked her way to the top, marked by consistency in the evolution process. The veteran boasts a PRO record of 24 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw and has been a sensation ever since she went pro. Although she was initially known for her Muay Thai striking that earned her 8 knockout wins, the Peruvian has diligently developed into an expert in the grappling domain, evidenced by her 7 submission wins. This diversity in skillset is further underscored by her 9 decision wins, showcasing her ability to control all facets of Mixed Martial Arts. Simply put, “Bullet” is a complete fighter, and this explains why she’s the current flyweight champion.
Manon Fiorot – An Almost Perfect Record
Manon Fiorot lives up to her nickname “The Beast”! She has been ferocious ever since she entered the UFC, as seen from her professional record of 12 wins and 1 loss. The French fighter may be less experienced than her adversary, but definitely has what it takes to be a challenger. Manon’s impressive record and consistency have earned her the #2 spot on the Worldwide Flyweight division, and she can’t wait to dethrone Valentina Shevchenko come the 11th of May.
“The Beast” is a knockout artist, having won 6 of the 12 by KO. However, she needs to work on her grappling skills because if the fight goes to the ground, Valentina might have an easy night. Furthermore, Mann’s recent wins have all been by decision, and this further raises doubts about whether she can stand against a veteran and well-grounded fighter like Valentina Shevchenko.
A Look at Some Relevant Statistics
| Age | 35 | |
| Weight | 56.8 KG | |
| Height | 169 CM | |
| Reach | 168 CM | |
| Stance | Orthodox | |
| Strikes Landed per Minute | 6.26 | |
| Striking Accuracy | 41% | |
| Takedown Average | 1.17 | |
| Current Streak | 1-win |
What I Expect
Valentina Shevchenko is likely to utilize more of her footwork and feints to close the distance effectively, permitting her to employ her clinch work and takedown attempts. This ability to mix levels, transitioning from strikes to takedowns, has been a key ingredient to her championship reigns. Once on the ground, it is often very hard for her opponents to resist her submission attempts.
On the other hand, Fiorot will probably maintain distance and utilize her slight reach advantage and high volume striking and power to disrupt the rhythm of Valentina and potentially aim for the knockout. Her ability to defend against Valentina’s takedown attempts will be paramount if she is to win this bout going in as the underdog.
My Prediction
Above the statistics and physical aspects, we must also consider the mental aspect of this bout! Valentina her last fight against Alexa Grasso was by unanimous decision, after they had drawn a few months earlier. On the other hand, Manon Fiorot is on an impressive 5-win streak, the last of which was her inflicting Erin Blanchfield with her first UFC loss. Here, we can see that both fighters are coming to this bout with high levels of confidence.
Right now, I’m a little cautious as to who exactly stands the best chance in this bout, and I’m monitoring closely the bookie odds as they often give me enough info before placing my wagers. So, look out for my update in a few days, wherein I’ll share the exact prediction.
Update
The clash between Valentina Shevchenko and Manon Fiorot at UFC 315 is around the corner. This bout is a major test for Fiorot’s championship aspirations and a potential redemption path for Shevchenko after her recent title loss.
While Fiorot brings excellent footwork, crisp striking, and undefeated momentum, Shevchenkos’ experience against elite competition is unmatched. Fiorot’s striking volume might trouble Velentina early, but Shevchenko’s ability to adjust mid-fight, mix in grappling, and capitalizing on small openings gives her the edge. Fiorot enters as a slight favorite, her victory paying @1.80, while Schevchenko is priced at @2.16.
Considering Valentina’s close bouts with Grasso, we expect her to fight more calculated, using her timing and octagon control to neutralize Fiorot’s pace. Our suggestion is Shevechenko to win by decision, based on superior experience and versatility. Go on and open an account at the best betting platform, and obtain the best odds and highest limits in the market!