
UFC Women’s Flyweight Division: Who’s Next for a Title Shot?
The UFC women’s flyweight division is undergoing a major shake-up—and the race for the next title challenger is wide open. The current flyweight title picture is looking a little crowded at the moment. The division is brimming with contenders, each making a strong case for a shot at the title.
With recent dominant performances, rising stars like Natália Silva, Jasmine Jasudavicius, and the winner of the upcoming Blanchfield vs. Barber clash are all in the mix. Add in a potential superfight with strawweight queen Weili Zhang, and the title picture has never been more compelling.
Here’s a breakdown of where the division stands—and who could be next to challenge Valentina Shevchenko for gold in the UFC women’s flyweight division:
Top Flyweight Contenders
Erin Blanchfield vs. Maycee Barber is set for a high-stakes showdown. Both women are surging in the rankings and continue to evolve with each performance. If either fighter delivers a dominant, highlight-worthy win, they could force the UFC’s hand and leapfrog the pack for a title opportunity.
Meanwhile, Natália Silva just made her biggest statement yet. At UFC 315, she put on a clinic against former champion Alexa Grasso, neutralizing the veteran and showcasing the depth of her striking and composure. A win like that—especially so decisively—should lead to her taking the No. 1 contender spot. If the UFC wants to reward merit, Silva might be next in line for a chance at the belt.
Still One Fight Away
Another rising name is Jasmine Jasudavicius. She shocked fans with a slick first round submission win over Jéssica Andrade, also a former titleholder. The dominant victory was impressive and earned her performance of the night honors. Despite pushing her stock way up, Jas likely needs one more win against a top-five opponent to solidify her case to be next in line.
Also looming in the background is the June 28th bout at UFC 317 between Tracy Cortez and Viviane Araujo. A win for either—especially in convincing fashion—would keep them in the mix. Cortez is coming off her first loss in the UFC, and should be looking to regain momentum. Both fighters are ranked in the division’s top 10, and probably still one more win away from a title fight.
Chasing Legacy
But perhaps the most intriguing possibility is Weili Zhang. The reigning strawweight queen is in the midst of a dominant second reign and could be eyeing greatness. A move up to flyweight to challenge for double champ status is not only plausible—it’s realistic. Zhang vs. Valentina Shevchenko would be a blockbuster, champion-vs-champion clash the UFC has leaned into in recent years, especially as of late.
As it stands, the flyweight belt has never been in higher demand. Between rising contenders, streaking prospects, and the allure of champion superfights, the UFC matchmakers have some tough—but exciting—decisions to make.
Who do you think should fight for the title next? Let us know in the comments!