Amanda Nunes is done waiting around, and she’s making it loud. The former two-division queen is looking at a blockbuster July return, with one and only one mission: reclaim her bantamweight crown from Kayla Harrison. The “Lioness” is eyeing UFC 329 on July 11, 2026, during International Fight Week in Las Vegas, which sets the stage for one of the most anticipated comebacks in women’s MMA history.
And, suffice it to say, she’s not entertaining any detours, interim belts, or tune-ups. Speaking to MMA Junkie on May 2, 2026, Nunes alluded that her comeback only happens for undisputed gold, and Harrison is the only name on her radar.
Originally, the matchup was supposed to happen for UFC 324 on January 24, 2026. However, it didn’t, as Harrison withdrew due to a neck injury that required surgery for herniated discs. Since then, contenders like Norma Dumont pushed for an interim title fight, but Nunes shut that door real quick. The 37-year-old’s playing the long game and betting on the biggest possible stage.
“I know everybody want a chance, you know what I mean?” Nunes told MMA Junkie. “I know everybody want to fight me, and I know everybody want to get a paycheck. I know that. But, it’s like if you put it on the table, it’s not how it is, though. I only fight for the (undisputed) belt, and I cannot make what they want, you know?
I feel like I’m going to have an opportunity for all of them, so they just have to wait like I did. I waited so much to fight for the belt. One day, I did it, so then I have an opportunity for everybody, and I think they should wait. I’m gonna fight Kayla and take my belt back.”
That patience, though, comes with a clear target. You see, International Fight Week is not just any date, but a very moment. Amanda Nunes believes both she and the UFC are aligned on making UFC 329 the landing spot, assuming Harrison is cleared in time.
Kayla Harrison, who captured the bantamweight title by submitting Julianna Peña at UFC 316 in 2025, is still recovering. Her timeline, as of May 2, remains uncertain. Nunes, who retired in June 2023, having dominated Irene Aldana at UFC 289, isn’t coming back for nostalgia. Validation, it seems, yes. And more importantly, for one opponent she believes is worthy.
If the timing does align, UFC 329 could feature a loaded card, potentially headlined by Conor McGregor. However, make no mistake, folks: Nunes vs. Harrison carries its own gravity. Champion vs. GOAT. Present vs. legacy.
Now, it’s a waiting game.