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Full Breakdown

Natalia Silva Captures Vacant UFC Women’s Flyweight Title at UFC 332

By Drooid · · How we work

Title Fight Outcome

On October 3, 2026, at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Brazil’s Natalia Silva defeated China’s Wang Cong by unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) to claim the vacant UFC women’s flyweight championship. Silva dominated the early rounds with speed and a head-kick knockdown in round 2. Wang rallied later but could not erase the points deficit.

Background and Title Vacancy

The belt was left vacant after longtime champion Valentina Shevchenko withdrew because of back and shoulder injuries. Silva, the No. 1 contender with a 21-5-1 record (9-0 in the UFC) and a 15-fight winning streak, was originally slated to face Shevchenko. Wang Cong, a 10-2 fighter with a kickboxing background, stepped in.

Fight Statistics

  • Wang’s record: 10-2 overall, 5-2 UFC.
  • Knockdowns: One (Silva’s head-kick).
  • Event gate: $2.7 million (Dana White).

Official Statements & Responses

UFC President Dana White praised Silva’s performance and the event’s financial success, adding, “I think if she had stepped on the gas a little earlier, it would have been a completely different fight.” Former champion Valentina Shevchenko congratulated Silva on social media.

Criticism & Opposition

Fans and media noted the main-event pacing as slower than the undercard’s knockout barrage. Silva responded by focusing on her victory.

Impact on the Division

Silva becomes the fourth undisputed women’s flyweight champion, joining Nicco Montaño, Valentina Shevchenko, and Alexa Grasso. With Shevchenko’s return uncertain, the promotion has hinted that Alexa Grasso could be Silva’s next challenger. Silva’s goal of an “active champion” schedule may increase title defenses and stabilize the division.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

Sources differ on the number of first-round knockouts at UFC 332: CBS Sports reported 11, while Sherdog listed nine. The gate figure is attributed to Dana White, but no independent audit is provided.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “I think if she had stepped on the gas a little earlier, it would have been a completely different fight,” — Dana White
  • “Whether it's by beating Valentina or not, if I win the title, I'm the undisputed champion,” — Natalia Silva