Former undisputed bantamweight champion Julianna Peña has expressed her disappointment with Amanda Nunes' decision to retire
Former undisputed bantamweight champion Julianna Peña has expressed her disappointment with Amanda Nunes’ decision to retire from mixed martial arts following their last bout at UFC 288. Peña, the current number one ranked contender at bantamweight, believes that Nunes chose the “easy way out” by not pursuing a potential trilogy rubber match against her. This article delves into Peña’s frustration and her desire for a decisive third fight to settle their 1-1 record.
Julianna Peña is known for her victory over Nunes in their first encounter. She was originally scheduled to face Nunes in the headline bout of UFC 288. However, she had to withdraw from the fight due to fractured ribs suffered during training. Nunes went on to secure a dominant win against replacement opponent Irene Aldana and subsequently announced her retirement from the sport.
Peña, feeling irate about Nunes’ decision to retire. She believes that the Brazilian champion took the easy way out by not accepting the challenge of a trilogy fight. Despite acknowledging Nunes’ accomplishments and wishing her the best, Peña argues that they cannot leave their series tied at 1-1. She believes that a true champion should see the series through and settle the score definitively.
The frustration felt by Peña is evident, as she expressed her disappointment in post-fight interviews. She acknowledges her emotional reaction during the interviews and clarifies that she wishes Nunes well in her personal life. She questions Nunes’ decision on a professional level. Peña believes that Nunes recognized the challenges that awaited her in a third fight and chose to avoid them, leading to her retirement.
Peña’s call for a trilogy fight stems from her belief that a true champion should face all challenges and settle the score. As the number one contender, Peña feels she deserves the opportunity to compete for the title again and prove herself against Nunes.
While Peña’s frustrations are understandable, Nunes’ decision to retire should be respected. Every fighter has their own reasons for stepping away from the sport. Nunes has achieved a great deal throughout her career.
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