Kamaru Usman, the Nigerian Nightmare and reigning UFC Welterweight Champion, recently shared his thoughts on the potential rematch between Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko. He believes that Grasso would enter this fight with an increased level of confidence which could make it more challenging for Shevchenko.
According to Usman, “Grasso has been in the ring with Shevchenko before. This experience will not only give her a sense of familiarity but also boost her self-belief.” 🥊
Usman further explained how rematches can sometimes be trickier than initial bouts. The fighters are no longer strangers to each other’s styles and tactics. They have had time to study their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses from their first encounter.
“Alexa Grasso knows what she is up against,” said Usman. “She has felt the power of Shevchenko’s punches, experienced her speed firsthand, and understands how she moves in the octagon.”
The Mexican mixed martial artist lost to Kyrgyzstani-Peruvian fighter Valentina Shevchenko during their previous match at Noche UFC event earlier last year; however, according to Usman, losing a bout does not necessarily mean losing ground altogether.
“She may have lost once,” he continued,” but that loss gives her valuable insights into what worked well for her in that fight as well as areas where improvement is needed.”
Usman emphasized that while many might see defeat as a setback or failure – it can actually serve as motivation for athletes like Grasso who are looking forward to avenging their losses.
“There’s something about knowing you’ve got another shot at someone who bested you before”, added Kamaru Usman referring to possible psychological advantages going into a rematch.
In contrast though – this scenario poses new challenges for Valentina ‘Bullet’ Shevchenko too. As much as Alexa learns from round one, Shevchenko also needs to adapt her strategy knowing that Grasso has had time to study and learn from their previous encounter.
“She can’t afford to be complacent,” Usman warned about Shevchenko. “She won the first fight but this is a new match. Grasso will not be the same fighter she faced last time.”
In conclusion, Kamaru Usman’s analysis suggests an exciting rematch in prospect between Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko – potentially full of surprises as both fighters have the opportunity to adjust their tactics based on past experience with each other.
While it remains uncertain who will emerge victorious in this anticipated rematch, what is certain according to Usman is: “Both fighters are going into this bout wiser than they were before.” This alone promises an intense showdown worth watching for every UFC fan out there.
