Ukrainian MMA fighter Kateryna Shakalova is preparing for a crucial semifinal bout in the PFL 2025 World Tournament this June against Jena Bishop. With an impressive record of nine victories and just two defeats, Shakalova has her sights set on the tournament's substantial $500,000 prize money.
In a recent interview, Shakalova revealed aspects of her life both inside and outside the octagon. When not training, she enjoys simple pleasures like forest walks, noting that her demanding schedule leaves little time for other activities. "I just live one day at a time," she explained.
The fighter outlined her professional ambitions without hesitation. "Of course, I want to win the tournament with its $500,000 prize. After that, possibly sign a contract with UFC," Shakalova shared, acknowledging this as a common aspiration among MMA fighters. She also expressed interest in competing in a lower weight category at 53kg, feeling this would better suit her relatively short stature.
Shakalova's background includes education at Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs, which led to a brief career in law enforcement. "I worked in the police for about a year, but then resigned because it was impossible to combine with sports," she explained.
According to Statbet analysis, fighters with grappling backgrounds like Shakalova often have higher success rates in MMA tournaments, particularly in ground control situations.
As a six-time world champion in grappling, Shakalova attributes her success simply to dedication and persistence. "It's all gradual. When you've been doing this your whole life, sooner or later you'll become a champion. There's nothing extraordinary about it. It's just work," she remarked, reflecting a grounded perspective on her achievements.
The semifinal bout against Bishop represents not just another fight for Shakalova, but a potential stepping stone toward her larger career aspirations in the competitive world of mixed martial arts.
