UFC 316 Heats Up: Peña vs. Nunes 3 Co-Headlines with Jones-Miocic Superfight

I’ve been covering the fight game for over a decade, and let me tell you – UFC 316 is shaping up to be one of those cards that has hardcore fans salivating. The promotion just dropped a bombshell by confirming that Julianna Peña will defend her women’s bantamweight title against Amanda Nunes in what promises to be an explosive trilogy fight.

This co-main event joins the already announced heavyweight title clash between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, making UFC 316 a genuine double-header of championship proportions.

The Bantamweight Rivalry Continues

The Peña-Nunes saga has been one of the most compelling storylines in women’s MMA. When these two first locked horns at UFC 269, “The Venezuelan Vixen” pulled off what many consider the biggest upset in UFC history, submitting the seemingly invincible Nunes to claim the 135-pound strap.

Their rematch at UFC 277 saw “The Lioness” roar back with a dominant unanimous decision victory to reclaim her throne. But a knee injury forced Nunes into retirement last June, leaving the title vacant and setting up this third encounter that could settle their rivalry once and for all.

Peña’s Rocky Road Back to the Octagon

Julianna hasn’t competed since that July 2022 loss to Nunes, battling injuries that kept her sidelined while Raquel Pennington and Mayra Bueno Silva competed for the vacant title earlier this year. Pennington emerged victorious, but injury woes continue to plague the division as she’s now unable to defend against Peña.

The UFC’s solution? Reinstate Peña as champion (she never officially lost the belt in competition) and book the trilogy with Nunes, who’s coming out of retirement for one more dance. Talk about MMA chaos at its finest!

Jones vs. Miocic: The Heavyweight Showdown

While the women’s bantamweight title fight would be worthy of headlining status on most cards, it takes second billing to what might be the biggest heavyweight fight in UFC history. Jon Jones, widely regarded as the GOAT, defends his heavyweight crown against Stipe Miocic, the man with the most successful title defenses in division history.

Jones made his heavyweight debut look easy with a quick submission of Ciryl Gane to claim the vacant title last March. Now, he faces a much stiffer test in Miocic, who hasn’t fought since losing his belt to Francis Ngannou in March 2021.

Why This Card Matters

I’ve seen countless UFC events over the years, but UFC 316 has that special feel to it. We’re potentially witnessing:

• The conclusion of one of the most unexpected rivalries in women’s MMA history
• A returning GOAT in Amanda Nunes seeking redemption
• Jon Jones potentially adding to his legacy against the most accomplished heavyweight champion ever
• Stipe Miocic’s last chance at reclaiming glory at 41 years old

When and Where to Watch

While the UFC hasn’t officially announced the date and venue for UFC 316, rumors suggest it will take place in July, potentially in Las Vegas. As always, the main card will be available exclusively on ESPN+ pay-per-view, with prelims likely airing on ESPN and early prelims on ESPN+.

I’ll be updating this space as more information becomes available, including additional fight announcements and official confirmation of date and location.

The Bottom Line

UFC 316 is delivering exactly what fight fans want – meaningful championship bouts with compelling storylines. Whether you’re Team Peña or Team Nunes, a Jones loyalist or a Stipe supporter, this card offers something for everyone.

What’s your prediction for these two massive title fights? Will Nunes reclaim her status as the WMMA GOAT? Can Miocic turn back the clock against Jones? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: Sports Illustrated