Julianna Peña's Path Forward: Who Will Challenge Her Next in the UFC Bantamweight Division?

Julianna Peña's Path Forward: Who Will Challenge Her Next in the UFC Bantamweight Division?a month ago

The UFC women's bantamweight division is buzzing following Julianna Peña's thrilling split decision victory over Raquel Pennington at UFC 307, where she reclaimed the title. Peña’s skillful mix of striking and grappling showcased her as a formidable champion, improving her record to 13-5. Now that she’s back on top, the question arises: who will be next to challenge Peña in her quest to solidify her legacy?

1. Kayla Harrison (18-1 MMA, #2 UFC Bantamweight)

Kayla Harrison is a name that resonates throughout the MMA community, and a potential matchup with Peña could be the blockbuster fight fans are eagerly awaiting. A two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo and a former PFL lightweight champion, Harrison is known for her grappling prowess and finishing ability.

* Recent Fight: Win vs. Ketlen Vieira (Decision, UFC 307, Oct 2024): Harrison showcased her grappling dominance, controlling the fight with a mix of striking and takedowns, proving she belongs at the top of the division.
* Previous Fight: Win vs. Holly Holm (Submission, UFC 300, Apr 2024): A notable bantamweight debut where Harrison demonstrated her elite grappling by finishing Holm in the second round.

Harrison’s blend of judo and MMA skills presents a unique challenge for Peña, making this clash a highly anticipated showdown that could captivate audiences worldwide.

2. Amanda Nunes (23-5 MMA, Former Champion)

The prospect of an Amanda Nunes trilogy fight with Peña could be one of the most compelling narratives in women’s MMA. Nunes is widely regarded as the greatest female fighter of all time, and a return from retirement to face Peña for the third time would surely attract significant attention.

* Recent Fight: Win vs. Irene Aldana (Decision, UFC 289, Jun 2023): Nunes showcased her championship pedigree by decisively defending her bantamweight title before vacating it shortly after.
* Previous Encounter: Loss to Julianna Peña (Submission, UFC 269, Dec 2021): Peña’s stunning upset over Nunes in their first encounter has left a lasting mark, fueling the fire for a trilogy fight.

Nunes vs. Peña III could provide closure to their rivalry while also being a massive event for the UFC, as both fighters have unfinished business in the octagon.

3. Norma Dumont (12-2 MMA, #5 UFC Bantamweight)

Norma Dumont is steadily climbing the ranks and presents an intriguing matchup for Peña. Known for her striking and tactical approach, Dumont is looking to make her mark on the title picture.

* Recent Fight: Win vs. Irene Aldana (Decision, UFC 306, Sep 2024): Dumont demonstrated her technical striking and fight IQ, controlling the distance and outpointing Aldana with her striking.
* Previous Fight: Win vs. Germaine de Randamie (Decision, UFC Fight Night, Apr 2024): A decisive victory over the former champion solidified Dumont’s status as a top contender.

A fight between Peña and Dumont would be a tactical battle, showcasing two fighters with sharp skills and strategies, likely turning into a striking chess match that could keep fans on the edge of their seats.