Three Fights Natalia Silva Should Take Next After Title Win

Natalia Silva's coronation at UFC 332 reset the women's flyweight division, and now the matchmaking clock starts ticking. The new champion looked sharp in claiming the vacant belt, but questions linger about how her striking-heavy game will hold up against the division's elite grapplers and veterans. Here are three fights that make sense for Silva's first defense, ranked by timeline and narrative appeal.

1. Valentina Shevchenko (Immediate)
The most obvious choice. Shevchenko has already made her intentions clear after Silva's title win, and the former longtime champion represents the gold standard at 125 pounds. A win here would legitimize Silva's reign in a way no other opponent can. The stylistic matchup is fascinating: Silva's volume striking and forward pressure against Shevchenko's counter-punching mastery and clinch control. Shevchenko's wrestling could be the equalizer, but Silva's cardio and output might overwhelm the 36-year-old if she can keep it standing. This is the fight that sells itself and answers every critic who questions Silva's credentials.

2. Erin Blanchfield (Next in Line)
If Shevchenko is unavailable or the UFC wants to build Silva with one more defense first, Blanchfield is the logical contender. The 25-year-old submission ace brings a grappling threat Silva has not yet faced at this level. Blanchfield's rear-naked choke finish rate would force Silva to solve problems on the mat, something we have seen limited footage of during her title run. The promotional angle writes itself: young champion versus hungry contender, striker versus grappler. A Silva win here would prove she can handle the division's stylistic diversity. A Blanchfield victory crowns a new star.

3. Manon Fiorot (Summer 2027)
The dark horse option. Fiorot sits just outside the title picture but boasts an undefeated UFC record and Muay Thai credentials that rival Silva's. This would be a pure striking showcase — two technical fighters with excellent footwork and combinations, both preferring to dictate range. Fiorot's power could be the difference-maker, but Silva's pace and ring generalship have broken tougher opponents. If Silva clears Shevchenko and needs a fresh challenge by mid-2027, this is the fight that delivers fireworks without the wrestling wild card. It would also test whether Silva can handle an opponent who matches her at her own strength.

Silva's title reign begins with options, which is exactly what a new champion needs. Whether she takes the legacy fight, the contender test, or the striker's showcase, the flyweight division finally has compelling direction again.