Silva Captures Vacant Flyweight Title as UFC 332 Prelims Feature Five First-Round Finishes

Key points

• Natalia Silva defeated Wang Cong to claim the vacant women's flyweight title, extending her winning streak to 15 fights.
• Valentina Shevchenko vacated the belt due to a back and shoulder injury, expected to keep her out for at least a year.
• UFC 332 prelims featured eight stoppages out of nine bouts, with five consecutive first-round finishes.
• Payton Talbott faced former two-time flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo in the co-main event.
• Johnny Walker won his heavyweight debut via first-round knockout against Mick Parkin.

Background

UFC 332 was originally set to feature a title defense by Valentina Shevchenko, but she withdrew due to injury, leading to a vacant title bout. Earlier reports noted that Paulo Costa proposed an interim light heavyweight title to salvage the card, but the UFC declined, opting for the Silva vs. Cong matchup. The event followed a strong UFC 331 and was broadcast on CBS and Paramount+.

How outlets are covering it

MMA Mania and Rolling Stone emphasized the controversy surrounding the main event, noting that fans and critics questioned the pairing of Silva with Wang Cong (ranked No. 6) instead of higher-ranked contenders like Alexa Grasso or Erin Blanchfield. CBS Sports analysts predicted Silva would win via decision or TKO, citing her superior experience and momentum. UFC.com highlighted the explosive nature of the prelims, noting that fighters like Jacobe Smith, Johnny Walker, and Anthony Wint delivered immediate first-round finishes. Rolling Stone focused on the streaming logistics, noting Paramount+ subscription costs, while CBS Sports provided detailed odds and expert picks, with Silva favored at -205.

Why it matters

The bout determines the new women's flyweight champion and sets up a potential future matchup with Valentina Shevchenko upon her return. The event also highlighted the depth of the UFC's preliminary roster, with multiple prospects securing significant wins. The controversy over the main event selection may influence future matchmaking decisions for numbered events.

What to watch

Natalia Silva is expected to face Valentina Shevchenko for the title once the latter returns from injury. Payton Talbott's performance against Deiveson Figueiredo will determine his trajectory in the bantamweight division. The UFC will likely evaluate the prelims' winners, such as Jacobe Smith and Anthony Wint, for future title or contender opportunities.