Two and a half years after hanging up her gloves as a two-division champion, Amanda Nunes is back. The greatest female fighter in MMA history has come out of retirement to challenge Kayla Harrison for the UFC bantamweight championship at UFC 324.
Nunes, 37, retired in June 2023 after successfully defending her bantamweight title against Irene Aldana. She walked away holding championships in two weight classes, with a resume that includes victories over Ronda Rousey, Cris Cyborg, Valentina Shevchenko, Holly Holm, and Miesha Tate.
“I missed it so much,” Nunes admitted at UFC 316, where she announced her return. “My baby is big now. She didn’t sleep much at night and I was concerned about that because we fighters need sleep. But now, my baby is bigger and I’m ready to go.”
The matchup against Harrison adds extra intrigue given their history as teammates at American Top Team in Florida. Harrison, a two-time Olympic judo gold medalist, represents the new generation of women’s MMA, while Nunes embodies its established greatness.
Nunes has been training with Larissa Pacheco, the only woman to defeat Harrison in MMA competition. Pacheco has expressed confidence that Nunes will reclaim her throne.
“She’s ready,” Pacheco said. “If the UFC wants to book this fight next week, she’s ready. I’ve felt Kayla’s energy before, and now I’ve felt Amanda’s. It’s going to be insane.”
For Nunes, this isn’t just about one more fight. She’s made clear her intention to compete beyond this bout, seeking challenges that match her legendary status.
