UFC bantamweight contender Kayla Harrison isn’t shying away from big names or bold statements. Ahead of her title shot at UFC 316, she’s not just aiming for gold—she’s aiming for greatness. And that means one thing: a showdown with Amanda Nunes.
The Legend: Amanda Nunes’ Unmatched Legacy
Amanda Nunes retired in 2023 after dismantling Irene Aldana, walking away as the reigning champion in both the bantamweight and featherweight divisions. Her resume? Stacked with records:
- Most title fight wins among women (11)
- Longest UFC win streak by a woman (12)
- Most finishes in women’s UFC history (10)
- First and only woman to retire as a simultaneous two-division champ
Now, the UFC plans to honor Nunes with a Hall of Fame induction this June. But if recent whispers and camera shots are any indication—her story might not be over.
Is Amanda Nunes Plotting a Comeback?
Fueling speculation, Nunes made a surprise appearance at a recent UFC 316 press conference promoting the co-main event: Julianna Peña vs. Kayla Harrison. When asked if she would return to face the winner, Nunes nodded—a subtle but powerful tease.
UFC CEO Dana White didn’t confirm anything, but the message was clear: if Harrison wins, the door could swing wide open for a dream fight.
Harrison’s Message: Respectful, But Unapologetically Ambitious
Harrison isn’t looking past Peña, who famously submitted Nunes in 2021 before losing the belt in their rematch. But Harrison already has her eyes on a bigger prize: a bout with the woman she calls the “greatest of all time.”
“I didn’t come to this sport to be second best,” Harrison said. “If Amanda wants to come back, let’s do it. With respect, with dignity—but with everything on the line.”
Shared History, Different Paths
Harrison and Nunes were once teammates at American Top Team, though their training sessions were more about drills than full-blown sparring wars.
“She got about 40 percent of me in the gym,” Harrison joked. “But when she wanted to train, I showed up. Not just because she’s the GOAT, but because that’s what being a teammate means.”
Since then, Nunes has gone on to start her own gym, while Harrison has continued to climb the ranks—most recently steamrolling Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira to earn her title shot.
Next Stop: UFC 316—And Maybe a Superfight After That
First things first: Harrison has to get through Peña on June 7 in Newark. But if she does, a Harrison vs. Nunes fight wouldn’t just be a blockbuster—it could define an era.
Two elite competitors. One legacy fight. And a potential passing of the torch… or a reaffirmation of greatness.
No matter what, one thing is certain: Kayla Harrison isn’t here to play it safe. She’s here to make history.
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