5 reasons why Valentina Shevchenko deserves the next UFC women's bantamweight title shot

Reigning UFC women's flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko is one of the greatest female fighters in MMA history. She has an incredible track record in combat sports and has been a great ambassador for the promotion.

'Bullet' is currently riding a nine-fight winning streak and has set herself up nicely for a return to 135lbs. She has done enough to earn an opportunity to become a two-division champion in the promotion. Following this past weekend's pay-per-view event, Dana White mentioned that he wouldn't be opposed to Shevchenko moving up to challenge Amanda Nunes for the women's bantamweight championship.

Dana White on the idea of Nunes-Shevchenko 3 next: "That's not a bad idea. Normally I would say, 'Come on, man.' That's not a bad idea when you think about it." #UFC277

'Bullet' vs. 'The Lioness' would mark the third time the two all-time greats have competed against one another inside the octagon. And so, there could be a lot at stake for their respective legacies if they fight again. This list will examine five reasons why Valentina Shevchenko deserves the next UFC women's bantamweight title shot.

#5. Former UFC title challenger Taila Santos is injured

Valentina Shevchenko most recently defended her UFC women's flyweight championship against Taila Santos. It wasn't the best of performances for Shevchenko, but she managed to successfully retain her title via split decision. Santos did a great job utilizing her grappling against the champion and had her in favorable positions throughout the fight.

Unfortunately, Santos sustained an injury during the bout, resulting in her being sidelined for the foreseeable future. It was a controversial decision as many believed that a new women's flyweight champion should have been crowned. It was a much closer bout than Valentina Shevchenko's past title defenses, which was refreshing to see.

Taila Santos’ eye is swollen after a head collision with Valentina Shevchenko 😳 #UFC275 https://t.co/I1d9C77qaA

Based on the bout's outcome, Shevchenko vs. Santos 2 seemed logical. However, as a result of the injury, the fight could be put on hold until after 'Bullet' challenges Nunes for the women's bantamweight championship.