UFC 322 Predictions Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili Odds and Expert Picks

Valentina Shevchenko and Zhang Weili are set to face off in a highly anticipated 5-round women’s flyweight championship bout at UFC 322. The event will take place on Saturday at Madison Square Garden, New York City. Fans can begin streaming the early prelims at 6 p.m. ET, with the prelims following at 8 p.m. ET, and the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET.

UFC 322 Overview

This co-main event features champion Valentina Shevchenko facing contender Zhang Weili. Let’s take a closer look at their records and what to expect.

Fighter Records

• Valentina Shevchenko: 25 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw
• Zhang Weili: 26 wins, 3 losses

Recent Performances

Shevchenko, reigning champion since December 2018, successfully defended her title seven times. However, she experienced a setback at UFC 285, losing by submission to Alexa Grasso. In their rematch, they fought to a draw in September 2023. Shevchenko most recently won a unanimous decision against Manon Fiorot at UFC 315.

Zhang Weili has recently moved up in weight class, looking to dethrone the champion. She is on a three-fight winning streak, with victories over Tatiana Suarez, Yan Xiaonan, and Amanda Lemos—all by unanimous decision.

Matchup Statistics

Striking and Takedown Averages

• Significant strikes landed per minute:
  • Zhang Weili: 5.15
  • Valentina Shevchenko: 3.14
• Accuracy:
  • Valentina Shevchenko: 69.66%
  • Zhang Weili: 64.11%
• Reach advantage: Shevchenko has a 3.5-inch reach advantage over Zhang.
• Takedown average: Both fighters show strong skills, making this an evenly matched contest.

Betting Odds and Predictions

According to BetMGM Sportsbook, the current odds for UFC 322 are as follows:

• Shevchenko: -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
• Zhang: +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
• Total rounds: 4.5
  • Over -275
  • Under +200
• Will the fight go the distance?
  • Yes -250
  • No +180

Expert predictions suggest that while Shevchenko is favored, the fight could be competitive. Many believe Shevchenko will utilize her reach to control the pace. There’s speculation that a decision victory for Shevchenko (+125) may be the most probable outcome.

UFC 322 promises to be an exciting showdown between two elite fighters. For those looking to place bets, be mindful of the odds and statistics as the event approaches.