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Shevchenko Claims Bias on Mexican Independence Day
Valentina Shevchenko has made a sensational accusation against the UFC Noche judges, claiming that they were biased due to Mexican Independence Day. The former flyweight champion failed in her bid to reclaim the belt from Alex Grasso in Las Vegas.
Nail-Biting Fight Ends in Controversial Draw
In a pulsating five-round battle, both Shevchenko and Grasso had their moments. However, Grasso retained her 125lbs title with a controversial split draw decision. Shevchenko was dropped in the second round but made a strong comeback in the third, nearly finishing the fight with a mounted guillotine.
Shevchenko Believes Judges Were Influenced by Mexican Independence Day
Shevchenko firmly believes that she would have become a two-time champion if Grasso hadn't been fighting on her homeland's birthday. She stated, "I think it really was 3-2 on my side. But the judges I think felt a little bit of pressure because it's Mexican Independence Day. That's why they give one more to the Mexican fighter."
Shevchenko Disagrees with Final Score
Shevchenko was baffled by judge Mike Bell's decision to score the final round 10-8 in favor of Grasso. She argued, "I feel the 10-8 in the fifth round, it’s completely unfair. I think I did everything to secure the victory. Unfortunately, I think this event is Mexican Independence Day, that’s why it affected the decision of the judge to give 10-8 in the fifth round."
Grasso Unconcerned with Scoring
On the other hand, Grasso brushed off the controversy surrounding the scoring of the fight. She stated, "I’m happy with my performance. For me, it was 3-2. The fourth and fifth were for me, but I’m not the judge, so yeah. I’m not the judge."
