UFC bantamweight champion Amanda Nunes sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts world when she announced her retirement at UFC 289. Her final title defense against Irene Aldana showcased her dominance once again, marking her sixth successful defense in the bantamweight division.
Aldana stepped in as a replacement for No.1 contender Julianna Pena, who had to withdraw from the trilogy fight due to broken ribs sustained during her training camp. With Nunes’ retirement, both the bantamweight and featherweight titles now become vacant, opening up exciting opportunities for other fighters.
Raquel Pennington Proposes Title Bout for Vacant Championship After Amanda Nunes’ Retirement
Seizing the moment, Raquel Pennington, the No.2 ranked bantamweight contender successfully made weight and was prepared to step in if needed, wasted no time, and issued a direct challenge to Pena, the next in line for the title shot. Pennington took to Twitter to express her desire to face the former champion.
Raquel Pennington, who shares a history with Amanda Nunes from their time on The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) in 2013, took to Twitter to remind everyone of their intertwined paths to success in the division. With a heartfelt tweet, Pennington highlighted the similarities they have encountered in their respective journeys to the top. She directly addressed UFC president Dana White and UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard, signaling her eagerness to step up and face the challenges that lie ahead. Pennington’s message conveyed her determination and readiness to seize the opportunity for her next venture in the bantamweight division, showcasing her commitment to making a compelling case for her rightful place among the top contenders.
“Me vs Julianna got the world title!!!! Dana always thought from TUF we would face each other at the finale. Wasn’t the journey then but here we are now!!! @danawhite @Mickmaynard2 @ufc”
Me vs Julianna got the world title!!!! Dana always thought from TUF we would face each other at the finale. Wasn’t the journey then but here we are now!!! @danawhite @Mickmaynard2 @ufc
— Raquel Pennington (@RockyPMMA) June 11, 2023
Speculation about Nunes’ retirement had been circulating prior to the event, and immediately after receiving her belts, the Brazilian confirmed that she would indeed be stepping away from the sport she had dominated for so many years. Her decision marks the end of an era in women’s MMA, leaving a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
In a beautiful chapter of her life, Pennington recently experienced the joy of becoming a parent alongside her wife, fellow UFC fighter Tecia Torres. Their baby girl arrived just 10 days ago on June 1, 2023.
Pennington faced setbacks in her career but showed remarkable resilience. After a title challenge against Nunes at UFC 224, she suffered losses to de Randamie and Holm. However, Pennington has since bounced back with five consecutive wins, including a recent split decision victory over Vieira in January. Her determination and skill make her a strong contender in the bantamweight division
However, there is still an opportunity for “The Venezuelan Vixen” to pursue the women’s bantamweight belt in a showdown against Pennington for the vacant title.
1 thought on “Raquel Pennington Calls Out Julianna Pena in Wake of Amanda Nunes’ Retirement At UFC 289”
Julianna Pena beat Amanda Nunes when Amanda was at her worst due to Covid and Amanda came back and beat Julianna when Julianna was at her best and did it in very dominant fashion! Nunes will always be the GOAT!