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UFC analyst Din Thomas believes Valentina Shevchenko is in for one of the biggest challenges of her career in fighting Natalia Silva.

Natalia Silva won the then-vacant UFC women’s flyweight title last weekend at UFC 332 by defeating Wang Cong by unanimous decision. The top flyweight contender won the vacant belt after Valentina Shevchenko left her post due to injury ahead of the UFC’s return to Salt Lake City.

Silva has been on a roll in the UFC and now kicks off a new era in the flyweight division. But before Silva can earn universal praise around the sport, she’ll likely need to successfully defend her title against Shevchenko in her next fight.

As Shevchenko continues to recover from her injuries, one top analyst believes Silva will give the former titleholder headaches inside the Octagon.

Din Thomas says Natalia Silva will give Valentina Shevchenko ‘a lot of problems’

During CBS Sports‘ UFC 332 post-fight show, UFC analyst Din Thomas previewed a potential Silva vs. Shevchenko title clash.

“I don’t know, man, the way Natalia Silva looked tonight, she looked outstanding. She fought the best fight of her career tonight when she needed it most. I think even if it was Valentina, she gives Valentina a lot of problems,” Thomas said of Silva vs. Shevchenko.

“Remember Valentina, she’s a little bit older. Natalia Silva’s on a come-up. Age is a real thing. I think if Valentina comes back, she’s going to have her hands full with Natalia Silva, and that post-fight speech (was) inspiring.

“I don’t care what you think about her. The post-fight speech was as inspiring as the performance.” (h/t MMA Junkie)

As of this writing, it’s uncertain when Shevchenko will be medically cleared to return to the Octagon. She hasn’t fought since defeating Zhang Weili at UFC 322 last year.

What is your prediction for Natalia Silva vs. Valentina Shevchenko? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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