Amanda Nunes has rejected a fight against Julianna Pena, leaving her next opponent uncertain.
What happened?
Nunes was initially scheduled to fight Kayla Harrison, but the bout fell apart due to Harrison's neck injury.
Pena offered to step in, but Nunes declined.
Support for Serrano
Amanda Serrano expressed interest in fighting Nunes, and UFC co-creator Campbell McLaren believes she is a suitable opponent.
McLaren tweeted that Serrano has the necessary credentials, having learned MMA in Combate Global.
Serrano's MMA experience
Serrano has three MMA fights under her belt and has been keeping her skills sharp.
She made her Combate Global debut in 2018 and has since defended her featherweight titles.
Challenges ahead
However, Serrano faces challenges, including a potential promotion-related problem due to her agreement with the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
Nunes, meanwhile, is making her comeback after a two-year hiatus, having last defended her title against Irene Aldana.
Serrano's last MMA fight was in 2021, and she will need to overcome this layoff to be considered a viable opponent for Nunes.
The situation remains uncertain, with no clear decision on Nunes' next opponent yet.
Nunes' refusal to fight Pena has sparked debate about her next move, with Serrano emerging as a potential contender.
McLaren's backing of Serrano adds weight to her candidacy, but the decision ultimately rests with Nunes and the UFC.
The development has significant implications for the UFC women's bantamweight division, with several fighters vying for a title shot.
Nunes' return to the octagon is highly anticipated, and her choice of opponent will be closely watched.
The UFC will need to navigate the situation carefully to ensure a compelling matchup for Nunes' comeback fight.