Amanda Nunes has received an unexpected callout that might be the solution to her return fight.
‘The Lioness’ retired following a unanimous decision win over Irene Aldana at UFC 289 back in June 2023.
She was then scheduled to make her comeback at UFC 324, with Kayla Harrison standing between her and the chance to reclaim the bantamweight title.
But just weeks out from fight night, Nunes’ plans hit a snag when Harrison pulled out of the bout after suffering a neck injury.
Amanda Serrano makes pitch to replace Kayla Harrison at UFC 324
Amanda Nunes has had a few fighters volunteer to step in at UFC 324. But none are more intriguing than the one from boxing legend Amanda Serrano.
Serrano, who still holds the WBA and WBO featherweight titles, recently defended her belts by outpointing Reina Tellez earlier this month.
“If UFC and Amanda Nunes are thinking of a replacement, I would love the challenge as I’m still in fight shape. Hope the champ recovers well,” Serrano posted on Wednesday.
With a professional record of 48-4 and an MMA record of 2-0-1, Serrano went on to explain why she’s interested in fighting Nunes.
“This isn’t to disrespect Amanda Nunes,” she added. “I think she’s the GOAT of MMA. I also know she has incredible hands & loves to use them.”
“I’ve competed in both MMA & Jiujitsu. Anyone who has ever done MMA/BJJ has always dreamt of competing in the biggest stages & company UFC.
Serrano began her MMA career with a draw in April 2018 before securing two consecutive wins by submission. However, she hasn’t fought since June 2021 when she submitted Valentina García with a guillotine choke.
Julianna Pena responds to UFC 324 withdrawal
Julianna Pena would be the most interesting replacement opponent for Kayla Harrison.
Pena pulled off a stunning upset in their first meeting at UFC 269 in December 2021, before Nunes came back seven months later and dominated the rematch over five rounds at UFC 277.
A trilogy fight seemed likely until Pena suffered an injury and Nunes stepped away from the sport.
After news broke of Harrison’s withdrawal from UFC 324, Pena took to social media and reposted an image of a fight poster for a potential third meeting with Nunes on her Instagram Story.
The former two-time bantamweight champion later shared another post suggesting their trilogy should be next after Harrison’s injury.
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