The Return of the Queen: Amanda Nunes Poised for Historic UFC Comeback
I’ve been covering MMA for years, and let me tell you – something massive is brewing in the UFC women’s division. Amanda Nunes, widely considered the greatest female fighter of all time, is eyeing a comeback that could shatter all previous records for women’s MMA.
After stepping away from the octagon for two years, the “Lioness” appears ready to reclaim her throne in what might become the biggest women’s fight in UFC history.
The GOAT’s Return: Why This Matters
When Amanda Nunes retired in 2023 after defeating Irene Aldana at UFC 289, many thought we’d seen the last of her competitive career. The two-division champion left on her own terms, with both the bantamweight and featherweight belts around her waist – something no other woman in UFC history has accomplished.
But fighters like Nunes rarely stay away forever. The competitive fire still burns, especially when you’re watching others try to claim your throne.
A Comeback Bigger Than Her 2016 Masterclass
Remember UFC 200? That night in 2016 when Nunes absolutely destroyed Miesha Tate to claim her first UFC title was spectacular. The Brazilian’s devastating power and technical precision were on full display as she demolished Tate in the first round.
That performance announced Nunes as a force to be reckoned with. But what’s potentially coming next could dwarf even that iconic moment.
The Potential Matchups That Have Fans Buzzing
The MMA landscape has changed during Nunes’ absence. New contenders have emerged, and familiar foes have evolved. Let’s break down the potential blockbuster matchups:
| Potential Opponent | Current Status | Storyline |
|---|---|---|
| Julianna Peña | Former champion who shocked Nunes at UFC 269 | Trilogy fight – they’re 1-1 against each other |
| Raquel Pennington | Current bantamweight champion | Nunes dominated her in 2018 – redemption story |
| Kayla Harrison | Olympic gold medalist, rising UFC star | Dream matchup of elite grapplers with serious striking power |
Why This Could Be the Biggest Women’s Fight Ever
The landscape of women’s MMA has evolved dramatically since Ronda Rousey first brought it mainstream attention. But even with stars like Valentina Shevchenko and Rose Namajunas, no female fighter has reached the heights of Amanda Nunes.
Consider these factors that make her return so significant:
- The mystique of her dominance across two weight classes
- Her highlight reel of victories over every former women’s champion
- The curiosity factor after two years away from competition
- The emergence of legitimate threats to her legacy
Beyond the Numbers: The Nunes Legacy
What makes Amanda truly special isn’t just her record. It’s how she dismantled opponents who were considered unbeatable. Remember when she knocked out Cris Cyborg in 51 seconds? Or when she submitted Miesha Tate with ease?
I’ve been cageside for several of her fights, and the aura she brings is unlike anything in women’s combat sports. The way she combines technical brilliance with raw power is something we may never see again.
The Business Impact: UFC’s Golden Opportunity
From a business perspective, the UFC has every reason to make Nunes’ return as spectacular as possible. Women’s MMA has lacked a transcendent superstar since Rousey’s departure. Nunes never quite connected with casual fans the same way, despite her superior skills.
This comeback is a chance to rewrite that narrative and create a moment that could rival or exceed the biggest pay-per-views in women’s UFC history.
What’s Next for the Lioness?
While official fight announcements haven’t been made, industry insiders suggest we could see Nunes back in the octagon by early next year. The most likely scenario involves a title shot against current champion Pennington or the completion of her trilogy with Peña.
Either way, when Amanda Nunes makes that walk to the cage again, it won’t just be another fight – it will be a historic moment in women’s combat sports.
Will She Reclaim Her Throne?
The biggest question remains: Can Nunes, now in her mid-30s and after two years away, return to her dominant form? The history of combat sports is littered with comebacks that didn’t live up to expectations.
But if anyone can defy those odds, it’s the Lioness. Her technical skills, fight IQ, and physical tools make her a threat even after the layoff. And that chip on her shoulder? It might make her more dangerous than ever.
The Final Word
As a longtime observer of this sport, I can tell you we’re witnessing something special brewing. Amanda Nunes’ return won’t just be a footnote in UFC history – it has all the ingredients to become the defining moment for women’s MMA.
Whether you’re a hardcore fan who’s followed her since the Strikeforce days or a casual viewer who tunes in for the big events, this is one comeback you won’t want to miss.
The queen is coming back for her crown. The only question is: Who’s brave enough to stand in her way?
Source: Bloody Elbow