Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko 9/16/23 – As MMA fans know, making expert MMA picks for upcoming bouts is exciting and challenging. Valentina “Bullet” Shevchenko, currently reigning champ in the UFC Women’s Flyweight division, will defend her belt against rising talent Alexa Grasso at T-Mobile Arena on August 20, with the main card starting at 10:00 PM ET. In this piece, we will evaluate each fighter’s skills completely before providing our pick for this particular fight.
Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko
Date & Time: Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET
Location: T-Mobile Arena Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
TV: ESPN+
Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko 9/16/23 Betting Odds
| Moneyline | |
| Grasso | +144 |
| Shevchenko | -164 |
Alexa Grasso Analysis
When it comes to offense, Grasso‘s striking game is outstanding. Averaging 4.88 significant strikes per minute, she boasts an impressive output that puts significant pressure on opponents. Unfortunately, her striking accuracy only stands at 43%, suggesting her volume comes at the expense of precision – something she must learn to balance better when facing more experienced rivals such as Shevchenko.
On the grappling front, Grasso’s statistics were far from impressive. She averaged 0.38 takedowns every 15 minutes with 44% accuracy, indicating her lackluster ground game and any chance she may face off against Shevchenko during a ground exchange. These statistics could place Grasso at an obvious disadvantage.
Grasso boasts an admirable 59% defense, but it should be noted that she absorbs 4.07 significant strikes per minute – an alarming statistic when up against an accurate striker like Shevchenko. In her last outing, Grasso suffered a loss, which could either serve to propel or disarm her psychologically going into this high-stakes matchup.
Valentina Shevchenko Analysis
In the striking department, Shevchenko is more measured, landing 3.29 significant strikes per minute. What she lacks in volume, she more than compensates for in accuracy, landing 53% of her strikes. This efficiency could play a critical role in the fight, especially if it goes the distance.
Shevchenko is a powerhouse when it comes to grappling. She averages a robust 2.57 takedowns every 15 minutes, and her takedown accuracy stands at an impressive 64%. She can control the fight by taking it to the ground, where her stats indicate she will have a substantial advantage over Grasso.
Shevchenko also shines defensively, boasting a 63% defense rate and absorbing only 1.99 significant strikes per minute. Her ability to evade damage while effectively countering puts her in an advantageous position. Furthermore, she’s coming off a win, suggesting that she’s in peak form and could carry that momentum into this title defense.
Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko Stats
| Grasso | Shevchenko | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 16-3-0 | 23-4-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 14:12 | 17:29 |
| Height | 5′ 5″ | 5′ 5″ |
| Weight | 125 lbs. | 125 lbs. |
| Reach | 66″ | 66″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Southpaw |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 4.88 | 3.29 |
| Striking Accuracy | 43% | 53% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 4.07 | 1.99 |
| Defense | 59% | 63% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 0.38 | 2.57 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 44% | 64% |
| Takedown Defense | 61% | 72% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.6 | 0.3 |
Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko Free Pick
Valentina “Bullet” Shevchenko will defend her Women’s Flyweight Championship against Alexa Grasso in the UFC Women’s Flyweight Title fight slated for December 17th. After conducting an in-depth analysis of both fighters’ offensive and defensive stats, grappling abilities, recent form, and grappling capabilities, Valentina Shevchenko emerged as the more well-rounded and likely winner; she excels in striking accuracy, grappling proficiency, and defensive skill. Valentina Shevchenko lands fewer but more accurate strikes and leads in grappling stats with an average of 2.57 takedowns every 15 minutes at a 64% accuracy rate. Additionally, Shevchenko outshines Grasso by taking less significant hits per minute and boasting a higher defensive rate. She also enters this bout on an undefeated note, potentially giving her an additional psychological edge in this high-stakes matchup. Based on this comprehensive analysis, one decision becomes evident: Valentina Shevchenko should be supported as the winner in this high-stakes battle.
Free Pick: Valentina Shevchenko -164
As the bout nears and Canadian betting sites are flooded with wagers, our analysis leans towards Valentina Shevchenko retaining her title. Alexa Grasso is undoubtedly a formidable competitor, but the reigning champion appears to have the upper hand in both the striking and grappling departments, as well as recent form. Remember, an informed bet is the best bet, so consider these factors carefully before placing your wagers. This is one event you won’t want to miss.
