Sun Apr 13 02:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Nunes’ Roar: UFC Legend Eyes Octagon Return After Retirement

**Newark, NJ** – Former two-division UFC champion Amanda Nunes, widely considered the greatest women’s MMA fighter of all time, may be returning to the Octagon. The 35-year-old, who retired after a dominant title defense at UFC 289 in June 2023, surprised fans and the MMA world at the UFC 316 press conference on Friday.

When asked about a potential Nunes comeback, UFC CEO Dana White pointed to Nunes, who visibly nodded her head in confirmation. This news follows months of speculation and pleas from rivals Julianna Peña and Kayla Harrison, both of whom are vying for Nunes’ former bantamweight title at UFC 316.

Peña, the current champion, and Harrison will clash on June 7th in a highly anticipated fight. However, the shadow of Nunes looms large. Peña, who famously defeated Nunes before losing the rematch, believes Nunes’ retirement was premature, hinting that the former champion is waiting to see the outcome of UFC 316 before deciding her next move – possibly a trilogy fight with Peña or a highly anticipated bout with Harrison. Harrison, a former teammate of Nunes, has also expressed her desire for a fight with the legend.

Nunes’ return would mark a significant event in women’s MMA. Her career boasts victories over every champion from 135 to 145 pounds, including two wins against current pound-for-pound queen Valentina Shevchenko and a knockout victory over Cris Cyborg. The possibility of another chapter in her illustrious career has the MMA community buzzing with anticipation.

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