MMA News · 2026-09-25 · TATSU WEAR Editorial
Natalia Silva faces Wang Cong for the vacant women’s flyweight title on Oct. 3 after Valentina Shevchenko vacated with injury — the winner meets the Grasso-Fiorot aftermath.
What Happened
The UFC will crown a new 125lb champion on Oct. 3 when No. 1 Natalia Silva (18-5-1 trajectory) meets Wang Cong (13-3) for the belt Shevchenko vacated. Silva’s last win and Wang’s 3-0 UFC run made them the clear pair when Grasso beat Fiorot on Sep. 12 to re-enter the mix.
Silva brings volume striking and wrestling; Wang brings counter left and clinch. Both have finished their last two inside the distance.
Why It Matters
Flyweight has been frozen since Shevchenko’s injury. Grasso at 18-5-1 now lurks as the obvious No. 1 contender after beating Fiorot 29-28 x3 at Noche UFC. The Silva-Wang winner will be asked about Grasso immediately — the division’s story is three-fighter, not two.
The Details
- Event: UFC — Oct. 3, 2026 — Interim/Vacant 125lb title
- Match: Natalia Silva vs Wang Cong — 5 rounds
- Stakes: Vacant belt; Grasso awaits winner
- Source: ESPN — Shevchenko vacates, Silva vs Wang booked
What’s Next
Winner likely faces Grasso in Q1 2027. For context: Grasso vs Fiorot recap and Moreno’s split.
Sources: ESPN