Amanda Nunes is widely considered one of the greatest female fighters of all time, with only a few rivals for that status, notably Valentina Shevchenko and Cris Cyborg. Cris Cyborg herself is a legendary figure, holding the unique `Grand Slam` title for winning championships across UFC, PFL, Bellator, Strikeforce, and Invicta. The accomplished featherweight recently added another belt to her collection by defeating Larissa Pacheco in October, who notably holds the distinction of being the only fighter to defeat Kayla Harrison.
In her extensive 31-fight career, which includes notable bouts against Gina Carano, Holly Holm, and Marloes Coenen, Cyborg`s only loss in the past 19 years came against Amanda Nunes in a rapid 51-second TKO at UFC 232, a bout widely regarded as one of the most significant in women`s MMA history.
Interestingly, while Cyborg approaches her planned retirement from MMA with just two fights remaining, Nunes, who previously retired in June 2023 after securing her 11th UFC title fight victory against Irene Aldana, is now eyeing a comeback after two years away.
Cyborg Comments on Nunes` Potential Return
Just last month, Nunes confirmed her intention to return to the Octagon, specifically stating she wants to face the winner of the upcoming bantamweight title bout scheduled for UFC 316 between her former opponent Julianna Peña and her former teammate Kayla Harrison. Reacting to Nunes` potential return, Cyborg shared her thoughts, noting Nunes` announcement and acknowledging that fighters often feel the urge to compete again.
She expressed her belief that Nunes “still has the fire in her heart” to make a comeback, adding that she is interested to see what Nunes` next fight will be.
Regarding her own future, the 39-year-old veteran Cris Cyborg mentioned having two fights remaining on her PFL contract before retiring from MMA, with aspirations of pursuing a boxing title. She is scheduled to compete this weekend at Fight Night San Jose in a boxing match against Precious Harris-McCray.
Cyborg`s Prediction for Peña vs. Harrison at UFC 316
Turning to the upcoming UFC 316 co-main event, Cyborg also discussed the bantamweight title fight between Julianna Peña and Kayla Harrison. Peña enters the fight having recently reclaimed the title via a split decision against Raquel Pennington, a decision some considered controversial. Known for her durability, Peña holds the unique distinction of being the only fighter to defeat Amanda Nunes in the past ten years.
Kayla Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in Judo and former PFL champion, will be making her UFC debut and competing at the 135 lbs bantamweight limit for the first time in her career.
Offering her prediction for the fight, Cyborg stated she believes the bout could end quickly. She specifically favors Julianna Peña to win, elaborating that Peña`s takedown defense will be key against a judoka like Harrison and noting the potential to take the back in such matchups. She expressed curiosity about Peña`s game plan.
However, Cyborg doesn`t anticipate a one-punch knockout. While not seeing an immediate striking finishing threat, she believes a submission finish is possible for either fighter and expects it to be a “great fight”. If it goes the distance, she anticipates a “little war” over five rounds. Ultimately, she highlighted the importance of cardio and mental readiness, particularly if the fight extends.
Percy Harlow