Valentina Shevchenko is a 36-year-old professional mixed martial arts competitor who competes in the women’s flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Champion (UFC). She was the former UFC women’s flyweight champion before losing the title to Alexa Grasso.
Valentina's achievements extend beyond the octagon. She earned an undergraduate degree in Film Directing from the National Academy of Arts of the Kyrgyz Republic. In December 2021, her university honored her with the title of an Honored Professor. Adding to her accolades, in April 2019, she received the Dank Order from Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov. This recognition came during her first visit to Kyrgyzstan in seven years, and President Jeenbekov praised Valentina for upholding the honor of their homeland with her achievements in her profession.
Valentina Shevchenko's parents
Valentina Shevchenko was born to Anatoly Shevchenko and Elena Shevchenko.
Valentina Shevchenko's mother, Elena Shevchenko, is an acclaimed former Muay Thai champion and president of Kyrgyzstan's national Muay Thai organization.
Valentina's father, Anatoly Shevchenko, had an illustrious background, serving in the Soviet Navy's Pacific Fleet during the Cold War as well as playing football for the Kyrgyzstan national football team.
Valentina Shevchenko's interest in mixed martial arts stemmed from the shared passion for combat sports within her family. Her mother and sister were both enthusiasts of combat sports, which naturally drew Valentina towards them. Valentina had stated in interviews that they had a close-knit family and would often train together, providing mutual support and assistance to one another.
Valentina's mother played a significant role in her early training, always striving to help her daughter improve. During Valentina's formative years, her mother trained alongside her. Elena Shevchenko can often be spotted on the sidelines whenever Valentina fights in the UFC, cheering her on.
Valentina Shevchenko’s nationality
Valentina Shevchenko identifies herself as Russian despite having been born in Kyrgyzstan.
In 2019, she received the Dank Order from the Kyrgyz president, Sooronbay Jeenbekov, in recognition of her achievements.
Currently residing in Las Vegas, Valentina Shevchenko's move to the United States is likely related to her commitments and demands within the UFC.
Last Updated On September 8, 2024.
FAQs
A. Valentina Shevchenko’s parents were Elena Shevchenko (her mother) and Anatoly Shevchenko (her father).
A. Valentina Shevchenko is of Russian, Peruvian, and Kyrgyzstani nationalities.
A. Valentina Shevchenko is 36 years of age in 2024.
A. Valentina Shevchenko is 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall.
A. Valentina Shevchenko was a champion from December 2018 to March 2023.
A. Valentina Shevchenko held the UFC Women’s Flyweight belt before losing it to Alexa Grasso.
