Holm is still motivated to win the bantamweight title and believes she can beat any of the other top contenders in the division.
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Although Holly Holm respects Amanda Nunes’ decision to retire, she still hopes to defeat the former UFC bantamweight champion.
Nunes announced her retirement after her victory over Irene Aldana at UFC 289. The Brazilian had been the dominant force in the women’s bantamweight and featherweight divisions for years, and her retirement leaves a void at the top of both divisions.
Holm, who lost to Nunes in a title fight in 2019, says she understands why Nunes decided to step away from the sport.
Holm told MMA Fighting, “I have the utmost respect for Nunes. “She has faced every great fighter. She didn’t avoid any people. I want to defeat her, I really do, but I’m only doing it out of sportsmanship. Amanda Nunes has my utmost regard. She has overcome every challenge, making her a dominant champion. She competed against all the best women. I wish her luck in retirement and everything because she managed to hang onto her belts. I sincerely hope she’s having fun.
Read more: Norma Dumont stresses the value of UFC’s women’s featherweight division, calls for Its continuation
Holm maintains her motivation to claim the bantamweight title and asserts her belief in her ability to defeat any of the other top contenders in the division.
“My mind was on this title shot regardless,” Holm said. “I still wanted the title when Amanda had it. I still want it now. My job is to win this fight, be on a winning streak, and keep moving forward. Victory, victory, victory, that’s all I want.”
Holm’s next fight is against Mayra Bueno Silva on Saturday. If she can win that fight, she’ll be in a strong position to challenge for the vacant bantamweight title.
In the meantime, Holm says she respects Nunes’ decision to retire, and she wishes her all the best in her future endeavors.
“I’m happy for her,” Holm said. “Amanda Nunes accomplished so much in her career. She’s a legend. She’s going to be remembered as one of the greatest fighters of all time.”
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