PFL muse defends Valentina Shevchenko after criticism for lackluster fight at UFC 322

Dakota Ditcheva downplayed criticism of the champion's conservative style and highlighted the weight of Valentina's legacy in MMA.

Valentina Shevchenko She is the flyweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

Dakota Ditcheva came to the defense of Valentina Shevchenko after the Ultimate champion was criticized for the style she adopted in dominant victory about Weili Zhang, at UFC 322Despite a safe and efficient performance, the Kyrgyz representative was accused by some fans of putting on a conservative and unexciting fight. When questioned about the issue, the PFL star showed understanding for the champion's stance, even though she doesn't see herself repeating the same approach in her own career.

In a conversation with Ariel Helwani, Ditcheva explained that she doesn't believe her nature allows her to adopt an overly cautious strategy. On the other hand, the fighter acknowledged that athletes of Shevchenko's caliber, with an already established legacy in the sport, tend to prioritize maintaining their position at the top and the longevity of their careers, avoiding unnecessary risks at crucial moments.

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“I hope that one day I won’t do this anymore. I feel that my essence would never allow me to simply play it safe. I would always be the type of person who moves on. But, on the other hand, when you are someone like Valentina and have built that kind of legacy, you don’t want to leave the stage without being at the top,” said Dakota Ditcheva.

Who is Dakota Ditcheva?

Dakota Ditcheva won $1 million after defeating Taila Santos in the PFL finals / PFL Reproduction

Dakota Ditcheva won $1 million by defeating Taila Santos in the PFL finals / PFL Reproduction

PUBLICITY:

Considered by many to be the biggest star in women's MMA outside of the UFC, Dakota Ditcheva is at the peak of her career at 27 years old. Undefeated, the British fighter reigns supreme in the PFL and boasts an impressive record of 15 wins, 12 by knockout and one by submission.

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