Even after her retirement from the octagon, the name Amanda Nunes continues to resonate within the MMA community. Known by her fierce nickname 'The Lioness', Nunes carved out a legacy marked by dominance, historic achievements, and an unrelenting fighting spirit that captivated fans around the globe. Her journey from Brazil to becoming one of the most formidable champions in UFC history is a compelling narrative of talent, determination, and breaking barriers in the sport.
The Ascent of a Champion
Amanda Lucas Nunes was born on May 30, 1988, in Rio Branco, Brazil. Her path to MMA began in the realm of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where she earned a black belt under the tutelage of Ricardo Pires. This strong grappling foundation would become the bedrock of her fighting style. Nunes eventually transitioned to MMA, showcasing her skills on the regional circuit before catching the eye of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Her UFC debut in 2013 was just the start. Nunes initially faced challenges, suffering early losses. However, this period served as a crucible, forging her resolve and refining her approach. The turning point came in 2016 when she shocked the world by defeating the highly regarded Cat Zingano, signalling the arrival of a new force in the bantamweight division.
Reigning Supreme: Multiple Divisions, Multiple Belts
What followed was a period of unprecedented dominance. In July 2018, Nunes achieved her first major milestone by defeating Miesha Tate via TKO to become the UFC Women's Bantamweight Champion. This victory was just the beginning of an era. Nunes went on a tear, successfully defending her bantamweight title against formidable opponents like Holly Holm, Raquel Pennington, and, in a stunning rematch, former champion Ronda Rousey.
The pinnacle of her dominance, however, arrived when she bridged divisions. In December 2019, Nunes faced the reigning UFC Women's Featherweight Champion, Cris Cyborg, in the main event of UFC 248. Nunes, then the bantamweight champion, entered the fight as an underdog. However, she stunned the world once again, delivering a brutal first-round knockout that was later named Knockout of the Year. This victory unified the divisions, making Nunes the first woman in UFC history to simultaneously hold titles in two different weight classes.
Her reign as double champion continued with successful defenses against Felicia Spencer, Julianna Peña (in a rematch where Peña famously dethroned her), and later, Ketlen Vieira. Each fight added another layer to her reputation as a dangerous striker and a relentless grappler capable of turning the tide in any moment.
Fighting Style and Psychological Edge
Nunes' success wasn't merely about physical prowess; it was a combination of elements. Her powerful striking, often employing a southpaw stance, allowed her to generate significant force. Coupled with her BJJ expertise, Nunes created a well-rounded game that kept opponents guessing. However, perhaps her most defining trait was her mental fortitude. Nunes possessed a calm, almost unflappable demeanor inside the cage, often breaking down opponents psychologically before delivering the physical knockout blow. Her ability to absorb punishment and counter effectively made her a nightmare for any challenger.
A Legacy of Impact and Inspiration
Beyond her titles and fight records, Amanda Nunes had a profound impact on women's MMA. Her success, particularly as a dominant champion, helped elevate the profile of female fighters in the sport. She became a role model, especially for LGBTQ+ athletes, openly identifying as bisexual and using her platform to inspire others. Nunes' fights were often high-profile events, drawing significant attention and proving that women's MMA could draw massive audiences.
Her rivalry with Cris Cyborg became one of the most compelling storylines in MMA history, culminating in their epic battles for supremacy. Nunes' victory over Rousey also symbolized the changing of the guard in women's MMA, marking the end of an era for the sport's first superstar.
The Retirement: Passing the Torch
In April 2023, Nunes officially announced her retirement from MMA following a unanimous decision loss to Germaine de Randamie at UFC 288. The decision came after a period reflecting on her career and personal well-being. Nunes expressed her desire to focus on other aspects of her life, including her passion for music and her family.
Her retirement marked the end of a remarkable chapter in MMA history. While the loss was disappointing, especially given her desire to end her career with a victory, it didn't diminish the incredible legacy she had already built. Nunes exits the sport with a record of 21 wins and 6 losses, holding two UFC championship belts during her peak.
A Lasting Stamp on the Sport
Amanda Nunes' journey from a promising Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner to a double UFC champion is a testament to her exceptional talent, relentless work ethic, and unwavering mental strength. She redefined what was possible for female fighters, shattered records, and left an indelible mark on the sport of MMA. Whether remembered for her knockout power, her historical achievements, or her quiet confidence, 'The Lioness' will forever be etched in the annals of MMA history as one of the greatest female fighters of all time. Her legacy serves as inspiration for current and future generations of athletes, proving that with dedication and heart, barriers can be broken and legends can be made.
