The MMA world is buzzing with anticipation as Amanda Nunes, widely regarded as the greatest female fighter of all time, takes a significant step towards her UFC comeback. This news ignites the potential for a blockbuster clash against Kayla Harrison, the current UFC women’s bantamweight champion. This article delves into Nunes’ return to the drug testing pool and Harrison’s intriguing revelation about a ‘small fee’ that could expedite the highly anticipated matchup. It will examine the timeline for their potential fight and the implications for the UFC landscape.
Nunes’ decision to re-enter the USADA testing pool signals her serious intent to compete once more, setting the stage for a clash with Harrison that fans have been clamoring for. Harrison’s candid admission about waiving the six-month testing pool requirement for a fee adds another layer of intrigue, raising questions about the negotiation and potential timeline of the fight. We’ll break down the key details of these developments and explore the possible scenarios for when these two titans might finally meet in the Octagon.
Get ready to dive deep into the latest developments surrounding Amanda Nunes’ comeback and the brewing rivalry with Kayla Harrison. From Nunes’ return to the testing pool to Harrison’s ‘small fee’ revelation and the potential dates for their epic showdown, we’ve got all the information you need to stay ahead of the curve. Join us as we dissect the details and analyze the implications for the future of women’s MMA.
Amanda Nunes Registers Drug Test Ahead of UFC Comeback
When Amanda Nunes retired from the sport, it didn’t exactly come as a surprise to the UFC fanbase as there weren’t any contenders left for ‘The Lioness’ to fight. But then when the promotion announced their signing of Harrison, the Brazilian almost immediately decided that she would likely make her return.
Harrison and Nunes have somewhat of a history as they both used to train together at American Top Team before Harrison decided to leave. Despite that, the current champion has improved leaps and bounds since their days training together, and the two are now one step closer to facing each other.
Nunes has now officially registered a drug test session according to the UFC Anti-Doping database, confirming her comeback is on. It is unclear how long the Brazilian has been in the testing pool before registering her test. This is a crucial step, as it indicates Nunes’ commitment to adhering to the UFC’s anti-doping policies and signals her readiness to compete at the highest level once again. Her return to the testing pool also adds fuel to the fire for a potential showdown with Kayla Harrison, solidifying the possibility of a future clash between the two stars.
The Lioness, as she’s affectionately known, boasts an incredible career, decorated with dominant victories and championship reigns. Her comeback promises to reignite the women’s division and presents a fresh challenge for Kayla Harrison, who has quickly risen to prominence in the UFC. The return of Amanda Nunes adds excitement and anticipation to the sport, and fans are eager to witness her next chapter in the Octagon.
Kayla Harrison Makes ‘Small Fee’ Revelation
However, during a recent Q&A at the UFC 318 ceremonial weigh-ins, Harrison revealed that she agreed to disregard the need for Nunes to be in the testing pool for six months, for a ‘small fee.’
“I haven’t heard too much either, but you best believe I’m gonna be hollering at my boy Ali (Abdelaziz) after this weekend, I had to come to New Orleans, I had to come and support Dustin (Poirier), I’ve been training but now it’s back to training hard and I’m ready to whoop Amanda’s a–.
“I said I would waive that (need to be in the testing pool for six months) for a small fee. I’m ready to fight. Fighters fight,” Harrison continued.
Harrison’s willingness to waive the testing pool requirement showcases her eagerness to face Nunes as soon as possible. The ‘small fee’ revelation adds an intriguing twist, suggesting that negotiations and strategic decisions are playing a role in the timing of the potential fight. It also highlights the business aspect of the sport, where financial incentives can influence the decisions of fighters and promotions.
When Could Harrison vs Nunes Take Place?
Although Harrison is open to giving Nunes an exemption from the usual rules, it is unlikely that the promotion will fast track Nunes’ return. And with that in mind, if Nunes has only just returned to the testing pool, the soonest she could return to action would be in January next year.
However, after Donald Trump recently announced that he wants to host a UFC event next year on July 4, almost the entire roster has thrown their names in the hat to fight on the card. It is likely that the promotion will stack the event from top to bottom, potentially leaving a space for Harrison vs Nunes to take place on that card.
Given the potential scenarios, fans can anticipate a possible timeline for the Harrison vs. Nunes showdown, ranging from early 2026 to July 4th. The UFC’s decision on whether to grant an exemption to the testing pool requirement will play a pivotal role in determining the exact date. Regardless, the anticipation for this matchup is building, and the MMA community eagerly awaits the announcement of a finalized date.
Amanda Nunes’ re-entry into the UFC drug testing pool signifies a monumental step towards her highly anticipated comeback and a potential clash with Kayla Harrison. The Lioness’ return promises to shake up the women’s division and provide a thrilling challenge for the reigning champion. Meanwhile, Kayla Harrison’s revelation about a ‘small fee’ to waive the testing pool requirement adds a layer of intrigue to the negotiation process and highlights the business dynamics of the sport.
As the MMA world eagerly awaits the finalized date for this epic showdown, fans can speculate on the potential timelines, ranging from early 2026 to a possible July 4th showcase. Regardless of when it happens, Harrison vs. Nunes promises to be a historic event that will captivate audiences worldwide. The implications for the future of women’s MMA are significant, as this matchup will undoubtedly elevate the sport to new heights and inspire a new generation of fighters.
In conclusion, the return of Amanda Nunes and the brewing rivalry with Kayla Harrison represent a pivotal moment for the UFC and women’s MMA. The combination of Nunes’ legendary status and Harrison’s rising star power creates a compelling narrative that is sure to draw massive attention. Whether it’s the strategic negotiations, the potential timelines, or the overall impact on the sport, there’s no denying that Harrison vs. Nunes is poised to be a defining moment in MMA history.
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