Amanda Nunes Returns at UFC 334 to Face Kayla Harrison

At 38 years old, mixed martial arts legend Amanda Nunes is officially stepping out of retirement to return to the Octagon. When Nunes initially walked away from the sport in June 2023 after defeating Irene Aldana for her eighth title defense, she left both her bantamweight and featherweight belts in the center of the cage. As the only fighter in UFC history to simultaneously hold and defend titles in two weight classes, Nunes accomplished every conceivable feat before hanging up her gloves.

Her comeback bout at UFC 334 pits her against dominant current champion Kayla Harrison, whom Nunes has publicly ranked as the second-greatest women's fighter in MMA history. Harrison claimed the bantamweight title by defeating Julianna Peña in June 2025, prompting Nunes to step back into the spotlight. The two athletes previously trained together at American Top Team, but their relationship shifted as Harrison climbed the ranks toward UFC supremacy.

Speaking ahead of her return, Nunes explained that the years leading up to her 2023 retirement were marked by relentless pressure. Now, approaching her next fight with a renewed sense of joy and a healthy mindset, the former champion's primary motivation is reclaiming the gold she never lost in competition.

“She’s holding my belt. This is the only thing. That is my belt. She’s the champion right now, and the thing that’s driving forward is to put my hands on my belt again,” Nunes said.

What to watch next: Watch for the official weigh-ins and final faceoffs leading up to UFC 334 as Nunes and Harrison prepare for their high-stakes title clash.