Women’s MMA has seen incredible growth over the past 12 years.
Women’s MMA has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, evolving from a novelty to one of the sport’s most compelling divisions. Once famously opposed to female bouts, UFC president Dana White reversed his stance in 2013 after recognising the star power of Ronda Rousey, paving the way for a generation of elite women fighters.
Today, the women’s side of the sport continues to flourish, yet Valentina Shevchenko believes a section of fans and media still fail to give it the respect it deserves.
Shevchenko calls out outdated attitudes toward WMMA
Speaking on the Russian YouTube channel Ushatayka, Shevchenko addressed the long-standing joke that women’s fights provide a convenient break for fans to make tea or leave their seats. She said such attitudes persist largely because people repeat them without reflection.
Shevchenko argued that women’s bouts are often highly technical, tactically rich and visually impressive, combining strength, control, athleticism and grace. In her view, the criticism survives not because it reflects reality, but because it is echoed without thoughtful consideration of what unfolds inside the cage.
UFC 324 placement sparks debate
The conversation comes amid renewed debate over the positioning of women’s fights on major cards. At UFC 324 on January 24, Kayla Harrison is set to defend her bantamweight title against Amanda Nunes in what is widely regarded as one of the most significant matchups in WMMA history.
Despite that, the bout has been scheduled as the co-main event, with an interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett headlining. While many fans criticised the decision as disrespectful, Harrison has dismissed the controversy, saying the order of the card is of little importance to her — even joking that earlier bouts suit her schedule better as a mother who is usually in bed by 9pm.
“It’s gonna be in Vegas, so it won’t be that late, which is good.”
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