Alexa Grasso had no issues with having an immediate rematch with Valentina Shevchenko, not only out of respect, but she also wants to keep the tradition going.
It’s out of respect, and she deserves the rematch: Alexa Grasso
The reigning UFC Women’s Flyweight champion dethroned Shevchenko, the longtime dominator of the division, at UFC 285 back in March, ending Shevchenko’s title reign of nearly four years.
Given how “Bullet” dominated the 125-pound division for years, it was no surprise for Grasso that Shevchenko got an immediate rematch, which takes place this Saturday night at Noche UFC in Las Vegas.
Speaking to MMA Junkie, Grasso stated that while immediate rematches at championship levels have been often received as boring and tiresome by the fans, she believes its the tradition and is honored to share the Octagon with Shevchenko once again.
“Yeah, of course,” said Grasso about the rematch with Shevchenko. “This is something that’s done, that’s tradition when a very dominant champion loses for the first time. It’s out of respect, and she deserves the rematch. I’m someone who respects the rules and abides by the company’s decision. Also, for me, it’s an honor to fight her again, because we can’t forget about everything she’s done. She’s a great athlete and has done incredible things for the sport, not only on the female side but the sport overall.”
“Her career has been great. It motivates me even more and makes me train extremely hard because I know she’s doing the same. I know that both of us are bringing entirely new games. We’re coming stronger, faster and more aggressive than the first fight. I love challenges, and this is a big challenge,” she added.
“I can’t say it’s going to be the same fight because I don’t know how she’s going to come out,” Grasso went on. “She’s always waiting but now said she’s going to come out more aggressive, so I hope that’s the case. I hope she comes with everything because we’re ready. Wherever she wants to take the fight, I’m ready. I’m excited, and I’m eager to get in the octagon. I want to fight now. I’m so excited. Of course, things like the first fight can happen. We all have our weak points and strengths, so we’ll see how it goes.” [H/T MMA Junkie]
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