The UFC women’s flyweight division enters a new era at UFC 332. With longtime champion Valentina Shevchenko sidelined for up to a year due to injury, the promotion has opened the door for two surging contenders to battle for the undisputed crown: Brazil’s Natalia Silva and China’s Wang Cong.
Both fighters arrive at this championship opportunity following dominant ascents, setting up a high-stakes clash between two distinct, elite striking disciplines.
Natalia Silva: From Adversity to Championship Gold
Silva’s path to the title has been defined by resilience. Inspired by Holly Holm’s iconic victory over Ronda Rousey, the Brazilian began applying her lifelong Taekwondo base to mixed martial arts. Before breaking through on the international stage, Silva endured significant hardship—at one point living inside her gym’s physical therapy room, sleeping on a treatment table for six months before coach Carlos and his family officially took her into their home.
That sacrifice translated into an undefeated UFC run that includes standout victories over established contenders and former champions.
"Since my first fight in the UFC, my mindset has always been to be champion," Silva said. "My edge over other fighters is that no one has more will to win than me. It is an entire lifetime dedicated to this moment, a lifetime overcoming challenges. Now is my moment for the world to know me as champion."
Silva’s team views her blend of rapid footwork, varied kicks, and high-volume combinations as the key to neutralizing her opponent’s power.
Wang Cong: Sanda Pedigree Powered by Team Alpha Male
Standing opposite Silva is Wang Cong, known as "The Joker," who has transitioned from a decorated kickboxing and Sanda career into an immediate MMA title contender. Boasting World Cup and Asian Games gold medals, Wang previously notched a kickboxing victory over Shevchenko before transitioning to the Octagon, where a recent triumph over Tracy Cortez propelled her into the title conversation.
Now training at Team Alpha Male in Sacramento, California, Wang has been mentored directly by UFC Hall of Famer Urijah Faber, who recognized her championship caliber almost immediately.
"It was pretty quick that I realized she could be a world champion," Faber said. "The level of striking Joker brings to the Octagon is incredible. It’s creative, she can be in a flow state, make adjustments, and she’s not afraid to get in a knockdown, drag-out fight."
Faber is confident that Wang’s traditional kickboxing foundation will dictate the terms of the fight:
"One [style] is about timing, precision, and counters. The other is implementing your will. I’ll take a traditional kickboxing champion over a karate-style fighter any day."
A Clash of Dynamic Striking Disciplines
The UFC 332 co-main event presents a classic contrast in striking philosophies. Silva relies on lateral movement, unpredictable angles, and lightning-fast Taekwondo kicks to break down opposition. Wang counters with disciplined Sanda mechanics, heavy pocket boxing, and punishing low kicks designed to control distance and inflict damage.
With the flyweight throne vacant, both first-time title challengers enter the Octagon ready to cement their place at the top of the division.
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