Wang Cong not surprised by UFC 332 title shot

Wang Cong is not surprised that she received the UFC flyweight title shot. The Chinese contender faces Natalia Silva for the championship at UFC 332 on Oct. 3 in Salt Lake City after Valentina Shevchenko withdrew from the bout due to an injury and vacated the belt. Although the fact that she was given the title shot over other contenders raised questions, Wang sees the timing of the division made her the obvious option.

Wang Cong Explains Why She Got the Title Shot

Cong enters the championship fight riding a four-fight winning streak and sitting at No. 6 in the division. However, the decision to award her the title shot ahead of other contenders raised eyebrows, even as the Chinese believes her momentum made her the natural challenger.

"I'm not surprised," Cong told MMA Fighting. "Because how the rankings go either has a fight booked or they just fought. I'm on a four fight win streak and I think it's my time."

In fact, top contenders such as Alexa Grasso and Manon Fiorot have just faced each other at Noche UFC 4 earlier this month, with the Mexican winning by unanimous decision. On the other hand, fighters such as Erin Blanchfield also seemed worthy of getting a title shot.

Wang Cong Expects Striking Battle with Natalia Silva

With the matchup just around the corner, Cong expects UFC 332 to showcase two of the best strikers in the women's flyweight division. The Chinese contender says controlling the pace will be the key to defeating the Brazilian fighter.

"It's going to be two world-class strikers," Cong said. "The key to winning is controlling the rhythm of the fight. It also comes down to desire — who wants it more."

Wang and Natalia Silva are scheduled to headline UFC 332 on Oct. 3 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, with the UFC women's flyweight title on the line.