A UFC legend has a bold message for a potential Fighter of the Year contender, urging them to break free from a situation that's hindering their success and recognition.
In a surprising turn of events, one fighter, despite an impressive 2025 record, has remained somewhat under the radar. Tom Aspinall, a respected voice in the UFC community, named Ilia Topuria as his Fighter of the Year, but the lightweight champion's selection wasn't unanimous among fans.
With a total of 11 UFC belts changing hands in 2025, the competition for this prestigious title was fierce. The debate heated up after Merab Dvalishvili's loss to Petr Yan in the year-end fight, leaving fans wondering who deserved the honor.
Among the contenders, one fighter's career is being negatively impacted by a single aspect, according to an Octagon legend.
The Unsung Hero: Valentina Shevchenko's Fight for Recognition
Chael Sonnen, a UFC legend known for his critical eye, believes that Valentina Shevchenko, the 37-year-old flyweight champion, deserves more than just a co-main event spot. Despite her impressive victories over top opponents this year, Sonnen argues that Shevchenko's legacy is being overshadowed.
Sonnen, a former UFC title challenger, expressed his happiness over Shevchenko's recognition as the female Fighter of the Year in 2025. However, he admitted to struggling to recall her specific achievements, attributing this to her co-main event status.
"If I were her, I'd make it clear to my management: it's main event or nothing," Sonnen suggested. "I wouldn't accept their excuses for not getting her there. It's time for a tough conversation, and the only option is the main event."
Sonnen believes that Shevchenko's world title fights, her status as Fighter of the Year, and her legacy as the greatest female fighter in history, demand nothing less than a main event slot.
But here's where it gets controversial...
While Sonnen acknowledges that Shevchenko has main-evented a UFC PPV in the past, her recent fights have been somewhat forgettable, despite her dominant performances.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not solely about being the main event. It's about the impact and legacy these fights leave behind.
In 2025, Shevchenko defeated the top contender in her division and the champion from the weight class below, showcasing her skills in fights that, while not thrilling, were undoubtedly impressive.
So, why isn't Valentina Shevchenko getting the praise she deserves? Is it because of the co-main event status, or is there something else at play?
Join the discussion! Who is your UFC Fighter of the Year? Share your thoughts and let's debate!
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