In a surprising twist, former two-division UFC champion Amanda Nunes hints at a potential return to the octagon, leaving fans and pundits alike speculating about the future of her illustrious career.
Nunes, who witnessed Raquel Pennington‘s victory in the co-main event of UFC 297, expressed a whirlwind of emotions that sparked a renewed fire within her. The bantamweight title fight, where Pennington claimed the belt Nunes vacated last June, played a pivotal role in this contemplation.
Speaking to ESPN, Nunes opened up about the mixed feelings she experienced during the title bout. “I was nervous. It was a mix of happiness and sadness. But when I saw ‘Rocky’ with the belt, I was okay,” she revealed. The decision to retire and focus on family and personal well-being seemed right, considering her desire to enjoy life beyond the relentless demands of the octagon.
“I think I did the right decision – retire and rest a little bit and take care of the babies. I can’t let Nina take care of the babies by herself. Also, just enjoy (life), too. My whole life, I was always fighting, and I never really enjoyed my 20s,” Nunes shared.
At 35, Nunes believes she is still young and fresh, prompting speculation about a potential return to the UFC stage. The Brazilian fighter acknowledges the allure of a normal life outside the gym but admits, “I’m still healthy, powerful, smart. I think like a champion. I still feel a champion, so we’ll see.”
If Amanda decides she wants to take her belt back, she’s going to come and take her belt back. https://t.co/xBbyydIkLM
— Matthew Wells (@MrMWells) January 22, 2024
In a follow-up interview with reporter Megan Olivi, Nunes didn’t rule out the possibility of a comeback, showcasing the internal struggle between the love for her job and the enjoyment of a more laid-back lifestyle. “I don’t know. You never know – I’m a fighter. This is my job, and I love this so much,” Nunes admitted.
As the MMA community eagerly awaits the decision of one of its most celebrated athletes, the question lingers: Will Amanda Nunes make a triumphant return to the octagon, or is this a momentary contemplation in the retired life of a true champion? Stay tuned as the saga unfolds, and the future of Amanda Nunes in the UFC hangs in the balance.
KAIRA’S VIEW
In the captivating narrative of Amanda Nunes contemplating a potential UFC comeback, there’s an unmistakable human touch that transcends the realm of sports. As the former two-division UFC champion grapples with the idea of returning to the octagon, her emotions become a relatable journey for fans. Nunes’ mixed feelings during the women’s bantamweight title fight, the nervousness, and the subsequent contentment seeing Raquel Pennington with the belt, offer a glimpse into the complexities of an athlete’s decision-making. The human side of Nunes emerges as she reflects on the need for a break, to cherish family moments, and finally, to savor the joys of a life beyond constant fighting. At 35, with a heart that still beats with the rhythm of a champion, Nunes’ uncertainty about a comeback resonates with the internal struggles many face when balancing professional dedication and personal fulfillment. As Megan Olivi delves deeper into the interview, Nunes’ genuine conflict between the love for her job and the desire for a more relaxed lifestyle paints a nuanced picture of a fighter at a crossroads. The human experience embedded in Nunes’ words adds depth to this sports narrative, turning it into a tale of self-discovery and the ever-evolving journey of a true champion.
