Jun 7, 2025; Newark, New Jersey, UNITED STATES; Kayla Harrison (blue gloves) talks to Amanda Nunes after defeating Julianna Pena (not pictured) in a bantamweight title bout during UFC 316 at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

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“Brings Me Fear” – Amanda Nunes Shows Respects To Kayla Harrison’s Skills Ahead Of Their Potential Fight

Amanda Nunes reveals her appreciation of new champion Kayla Harrison's skill, reveals she puts fear in her heart!

Retirement in combat sports rarely sticks, especially when unfinished business remains on the table. Amanda Nunes walked away from the UFC as the greatest female fighter of all time, holding titles in two divisions simultaneously and defeating every legendary name put in front of her. The Brazilian lioness seemed content, but something about Kayla Harrison becoming champion awakened the sleeping giant. Maybe it’s the respect factor, or perhaps it’s the challenge of facing someone who truly belongs in the same conversation as the all-time greats.

The two-time Olympic judo gold medalist dominated PFL before making her UFC debut. Harrison brought legitimate credentials and an undefeated record that demanded attention. Her submission victory over Pena at UFC 316 not only crowned a new champion but also drew Nunes out of retirement. The stage is set for a superfight between two women who represent the absolute pinnacle of the sport!

Amanda Nunes Reveals The Fear Factor That Motivates Her

Amanda Nunes admits that Kayla Harrison brings something special to the table that most opponents lack. Nunes understands that Harrison possesses the skills and credentials to present a legitimate threat to her legacy. And she is willing to test herself against her.

“I like when the opponents can bring me fear, bring me adrenaline. Kayla is one of those kinds of fighters. This is how I show up, when you threaten me with something. I know Kayla is that kind of fighter. This is what I like to feel. I like to be in danger. This is how ‘The Lioness’ comes out.”

Amanda Nunes embraces the danger of Kayla Harrison in her #UFC316 comeback fight 🦁 pic.twitter.com/a6LOa9w4Xk
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) June 8, 2025

The fear Nunes mentions isn’t about being scared in the traditional sense. It’s about facing someone who can match her accomplishments and skill level. Harrison’s Olympic success gives her a foundation that few fighters can claim. Her grappling credentials rival anyone, and her transition to mixed martial arts has been seamless. Nunes thrives on these high-stakes situations where everything is on the line. She’s built her reputation by rising to meet the biggest challenges, and Harrison represents the ultimate test.

Their history as former American Top Team teammates adds another layer to this potential matchup. Nunes left the gym specifically to avoid conflicts with training partners, but now she’s ready to face Harrison in the octagon. The respect they showed each other during their face-off after UFC 316 demonstrated the professionalism both women bring to their craft. Their potential fight would settle questions about who truly stands at the top of the bantamweight division. Both women have earned their positions through years of hard work and dominant performances, making this matchup a dream scenario for fight fans worldwide!

(Image Credit: Vincent Carchietta – Imagn Images)

Amanda Nunes

Kayla Harrison

UFC 316

Zaid Quraishi

mma

I am a dedicated MMA and Boxing content writer at The Playoffs. I was instantly hooked on MMA after watching the fight between Lyoto Machida vs. Gegard Mousasi back in 2014, and since then, i have been an avid writer with a deep love for the sport and its techniques, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the sport. My favorite aspect of working at The Playoffs is the creative freedom it provides. The diverse range of topics, from listicles and SEO to news articles, keeps me engaged and motivates me to continuously improve my skills! I aim to capture the excitement of the combat sports world in my writing, acting as the middleman between fighters and their die-hard fans. It is kind of like a referee, but with words!