Amanda Nunes Honored in UFC Hall of Fame
Amanda Nunes, a former champion in UFC’s women’s featherweight and bantamweight divisions, is being honored with induction into the UFC Hall of Fame’s contemporary section. This induction is scheduled during International Fight Week on June 26 in Las Vegas. Nicknamed “The Lioness,” Nunes, at 36, is among the few fighters celebrated for her exceptional impact on mixed martial arts.
Her induction, revealed during UFC 314’s broadcast, also came with tantalizing hints of a return to fighting. This announcement is almost two years after Nunes retired following her successful bantamweight title defense against Irene Aldana on June 10, 2023.
Career Milestones
Originating from Pojuca, Bahia, Brazil, Nunes has crafted a legendary 15-year career in MMA. Her breakout moment occurred in 2016, defeating Miesha Tate at UFC 200 to capture the bantamweight title. She garnered immense attention by knocking out Ronda Rousey and later defeating Cris Cyborg to claim the featherweight championship, making her the first woman to simultaneously hold UFC titles in two divisions.
Nunes’ remarkable UFC career features milestones like:
- Holding the record for the most wins in UFC women’s title fights (11)
- The most finishes (10)
- A 12-fight winning streak
These feats underscore her status as arguably the premier women’s fighter in UFC history.
Potential Comeback
Reacting to her Hall of Fame induction, Nunes hinted at possibly returning to MMA, driven by her enduring passion for the sport. “I love this game. I love the fight. And I miss it so much,” she expressed, revealing her thoughts during retirement. The possibility of facing Kayla Harrison, a fellow fighter gaining attention, seems to spark her interest.
Nunes noted that Harrison’s arrival in the UFC rekindled her competitive drive. Harrison is slated to face Julianna Peña for the bantamweight title at UFC 316. The prospect of tackling another formidable opponent might entice Nunes back into the competition.
The MMA world watches with anticipation, wondering if Amanda Nunes will indeed re-enter the arena, reviving her illustrious career with the same determination and vigor that characterized her early years in the sport.
