Valentina Shevchenko Gun Tattoo: What Is the Meaning and Story Behind the UFC Star’s Famous Ink?

In a world where ink often tells a story, UFC stars have made body art an extension of their identity. Conor McGregor’s gorilla. Israel Adesanya’s anime references. Even Sean O’Malley’s candy-colored explosion of ink. For Valentina Shevchenko, though, one image speaks louder than words: a Glock 19 inked right across her abdomen.

While others wear symbols of mythology or heritage, Shevchenko chose a weapon. But why a gun? Why that specific firearm? And what does it reveal about the fighter known as “Bullet”? Let’s break it down!

Why does Valentina Shevchenko have a gun tattoo?

For “Bullet,” the Glock isn’t just a firearm; it’s a part of who she is. When she’s not putting in work in the gym, Valentina Shevchenko competes in professional 3-gun competitions. That’s not just a hobby; it’s a second sport. From IPSC to IDPA, she puts her mind and trigger finger to the test. These events blend speed, precision, and tactical thinking, everything you’d expect from a UFC champ.

Her fascination with shooting dates back to 2010 when her long-time coach, Pavel Fedotov, introduced her to the world of firearms. Since then, her love has only grown. In a 2018 interview with Gun Cult Magazine, Shevchenko revealed her mindset when handling guns as she shared, “I know exactly when you have a gun in your hand, it is no time for jokes. I concentrate on what I am doing and leave all smiles behind.”

That Glock 19 inked onto her skin? It’s her favorite weapon. In an interview ahead of UFC 238, she revealed, “It’s very good gun because it can shoot everywhere. It’s very easy to carry. It can survive in different condition of weather or whatever, and that’s why I have tattoo on my body of a Glock 19.”

For her, the ink isn’t for show as she further shared, “It is universal, just like an MMA fighter. That is why I got a tattoo on my lower abdomen several years ago. So, now I can always keep it near me.” A reminder of calm under fire. After all, her nickname isn’t just about her fighting style, it’s something much deeper!

Valentina Shevchenko’s nickname also relates to her tattoo

The name “Bullet” wasn’t just crafted for fight posters. When Shevchenko was just 12 years old, she took on an opponent who was 22! Yet, despite the difference in age, experience, and size, she ended up knocking the opponent out cold. Watching from the sidelines was her coach, Pavel Fedotov, who bestowed the name upon her, and it has stuck till now.

But over time, it as much a part of her identity as her love for firearms. During an appearance on ‘The Ariel Helwani Show’, the champion explained, “I relate firearms to mixed martial arts because MMA is the greatest modern combat sport. It’s universal. A fighter must be skilled in wrestling, Muay Thai, boxing, and kicking. Combining the best qualities of each discipline.”

That obsessive attention to detail? It fuels her UFC dominance. And even when her time in the Octagon ends, the trigger won’t stay untouched. When she stopped by Joe Rogan’s studio for the JRE (Joe Rogan Experience MMA Show no. 115), she confessed, “When I’m done fighting, maybe I’ll try a shooting competition. Maybe after I finish my fighting career, I’ll compete in shooting. I think it’s an excellent sport.”

In the end, Valentina Shevchenko’s Glock tattoo isn’t just for show, it tells the story of who she is. For Shevchenko, the tattoo is more than ink, it’s a reminder of the skills and values that define her. Just like her nickname “Bullet,” it connects every part of her journey!