Julianna Peña, after reclaiming the bantamweight title at UFC 307, called for a trilogy fight with Amanda Nunes rather than facing Kayla Harrison, despite Harrison’s victory over Ketlen Vieira, expressing doubts about Harrison’s capabilities and suggesting that Nunes might return from retirement for a decisive bout.
Julianna Peña and Kayla Harrison both delivered impressive performances at UFC 307. But, don’t jump to conclusions about their title fight being locked in.
“The Venezuelan Vixen” regained the bantamweight title with a tight split-decision victory over Raquel Pennington. Instead of calling out Harrison, Peña set her sights on a trilogy bout with Amanda Nunes.
Peña’s challenge wasn’t unexpected. After all, she was the only fighter to defeat Nunes during her dominant reign from 2015-2023. Her team’s opinion of Harrison? Not exactly flattering.
“We’re not impressed,” Peña remarked about Harrison. “She promised fireworks but didn’t deliver. Vieira walked away unscathed.”
Peña leaned on her coaches’ views of Harrison while preparing for her own fight. She even likened Harrison to former UFC star Ronda Rousey, who saw her dominance end with losses to Holm and Nunes.
Harrison had to grind out a decision against Vieira, which Peña attributes to limitations in Harrison’s skill set.
“Once you stop the takedown, it’s a different ballgame,” Peña observed. “It makes the fight more competitive.”
Peña remains focused on securing a third clash with Nunes, arguably the greatest female fighter in MMA history. Their past encounters at UFC 269 and UFC 277 were legendary.
The anticipated third fight was set for UFC 289, but Peña withdrew due to injury. Nunes faced Irene Aldana instead and retired after the win.
“When Amanda retired, I was skeptical,” Peña said. “I think she misses the sport and might come back.”
Despite retiring, Nunes remains a looming presence in the division. Harrison didn’t mention Nunes after defeating Holm or now, yet Peña continues to call her out.
“I believe Amanda retired too soon,” Peña stated. “Our trilogy would be historic.”
Harrison has expressed interest in facing Nunes despite their training history. On Saturday, she declared her intent to claim the gold.
If Peña’s callout of Nunes doesn’t pan out, she’s open to facing Harrison.
“If Amanda doesn’t return, then yes, fighting Kayla would be exciting,” Peña acknowledged.