Alexa Grasso planning to finish Valentina Shevchenko in the Sphere

13 March 2024

UFC flyweight champion Alexa Grasso (16-3-1 MMA, 8-3-1 UFC) is gearing up to coach Season 32 of "The Ultimate Fighter" opposite Valentina Shevchenko (23-4-1 MMA, 12-3-1 UFC), marking a pivotal chapter in their ongoing rivalry. Filming for "TUF 32" commences this week, with the premiere slated for June 4.

Grasso made headlines by dethroning Shevchenko to secure the flyweight title with a remarkable submission upset at UFC 285. Their rivalry intensified six months later in a thrilling rematch, culminating in a split draw at the inaugural Noche UFC event on Mexican Independence Day. Grasso remains focused on her striking prowess, aiming to secure a finish in their anticipated third encounter.

"Every fight is kind of similar," Grasso remarked during a media session at the UFC Apex on Monday. "Of course, I love striking. The first fight I was able to touch her, second fight I did a knockdown so, my goal in the third fight is of course to finish the fight."

With "TUF 32" expected to air weekly for 12 episodes, the possibility looms of Grasso and Shevchenko facing off on the Noche UFC card at the Sphere in Las Vegas – a prospect Grasso eagerly embraces.

"I hope this is true," Grasso expressed. "I would love to fight there. That would be awesome with the show, a finish at the Sphere would be the best scenario."

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As anticipation builds for their coaching stint on "The Ultimate Fighter," fight enthusiasts await the culmination of Grasso and Shevchenko's rivalry, poised for another exhilarating showdown in the octagon.