Amanda Nunes — both ‘The Lioness’ and the GOAT

The 34-year-old is the first fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two weight classes at the same time on two separate occasions. She achieved this feat by mauling Julianna Pena to exact revenge after being beaten by the American in their previous bout

Amanda Nunes had a point to prove in her rematch against Julianna Pena for the women’s bantamweight title at UFC 277.

Seven months earlier, Nunes had suffered a stunning reversal at the hands of Pena. A rear naked choke in the second round saw Nunes, the overwhelming favourite, lose her bantamweight championship in one of the biggest upsets in UFC history.

At UFC 277, in front of a sell-out crowd at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Nunes got her revenge. Nunes dominated the fight from start to finish, battering her opponent with strikes and takedowns. A brave Pena managed to go the distance over five rounds, but it was Nunes who

emerged as the clear winner in this highly anticipated rematch.

The Brazilian showcased her tactical acumen in the fight, surprising Pena by using a southpaw stance. Not a natural southpaw, Nunes had to work on the fly, but it was enough to throw Pena off her gameplan.

Nunes, also the women’s featherweight champion, became the first person in UFC history, of any gender, to be crowned a double champ twice. Nunes, nicknamed ‘The Lioness’, underlined her status as the greatest female mixed martial artist of all time.

Even when Pena held the title, Nunes never doubted her own championship class. Her perfect display in the grudge fight was a reflection of her unshakeable self belief. Speaking to ESPN MMA after reclaiming the belt, Nunes said, “Throughout this time [when Pena was champion], I knew that I was a better fighter than Julianna. I was a better champion. I was a better person. Everything… She had her time, but now it’s over. The Lioness is back.