The highly anticipated UFC 306 pay-per-view event is set to take place on Saturday, September 14, at the Sphere in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dubbed as Noche UFC, the fight card features two thrilling title fights that are sure to captivate MMA fans worldwide.
In the main event, UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley will go head-to-head against Merab Dvalishvili in what promises to be an intense showdown. Meanwhile, in the co-main event, women’s flyweight titleholder Alexa Grasso will face former champion Valentina Shevchenko in a trilogy fight that has garnered significant attention.
The first encounter between Grasso and Shevchenko took place in March 2023, where Grasso, the underdog, shocked the world by defeating the reigning champion and ending her title reign. The rematch in September 2023 ended in a split draw after five rounds of intense competition.
Prior to their clash at UFC 306, Grasso and Shevchenko served as opposing coaches on the latest season of “The Ultimate Fighter,” adding another layer of anticipation to their upcoming bout.
Alexa Grasso, with a record of 16-3-1, has shown remarkable resilience and skill in her MMA career. After initially struggling in the UFC, Grasso made a successful transition to the flyweight division in 2020, propelling her into the top ranks of the 125-pound category.
On the other hand, Valentina Shevchenko, with a record of 23-4-1, has established herself as one of the most dominant fighters in the UFC women’s flyweight division. Following a move to the 125-pound weight class, Shevchenko embarked on an impressive winning streak, defending her title seven times before her defeat to Grasso at UFC 285.
As the third meeting between Grasso and Shevchenko approaches, the odds favor Grasso as the slight favorite. With Grasso showcasing superior striking skills and Shevchenko's formidable takedown abilities, fans can expect a closely contested battle that may ultimately be decided by a decision victory.
UFC 306 is scheduled to kick off at 10:00 p.m. ET on ESPN+ PPV, with prelims starting at 8:00 p.m. ET on ESPNews. MMA enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the trilogy bout between Grasso and Shevchenko, which is set to headline the action-packed UFC 306 card.
