Kayla Harrison stunned crowds at UFC 316 on June 7, 2025 by winning the UFC women’s bantamweight championship by submission over Julianna Pena with a kimura submission in round two, earning her a Performance of the Night bonus and much buzz afterward when she challenged Amanda Nunes, retired two-division champ, sparking speculation of an impending superfight comeback between Harrison and Nunes.
Rumors quickly surfaced about an upcoming bout between Harrison and Nunes, with UFC 323 this December in Las Vegas as being likely venue. Alongside other high-profile fights including Weili Zhang versus Valentina Shevchenko and Belal Muhammad versus Ian Garry.
The news of this potential fight caught the attention of boxing champion Claressa Shields, who expressed her excitement with a succinct “Whoa!!!! Whoa!!!” Shields, who has also competed in MMA, retired from the sport earlier this year to focus on boxing. Despite this, the buzz around Harrison vs. Nunes has clearly intrigued her.
MMA Legend Eager for a Comeback Against Harrison or Nunes
Chris Cyborg, another legendary figure of women’s MMA, has shown great enthusiasm about Harrison vs. Nunes fight. Having held numerous championships across various promotions herself and having previously lost her UFC featherweight championship to Nunes herself, Cyborg had long desired another bout between Harrison and Nunes; upon hearing of Harrison-Nunes news she boldly stated her interest to face either winner in what promises to be an extraordinary return battle in octagon!
Shields and Cyborg represent two of the pinnacles of combat sports within their disciplines, underscoring its importance. Fans eagerly anticipate official confirmation of what could become one of the most anticipated fights ever held at UFC events.