Amanda Nunes, a prominent figure in mixed martial arts, spent a significant portion of her career training under the coaches at American Top Team (ATT) in Florida. However, she eventually made the decision to leave the gym and instead establish her own private studio, allowing her to focus exclusively on her personal training and preparation.
This strategic move proved successful. Nunes bounced back from a defeat by dominating Julianna Peña over five rounds to reclaim the UFC bantamweight championship. She followed this with a decisive win against Irene Aldana in what was initially her final fight before retirement. Now, as Nunes prepares to resume her fighting career with a highly anticipated showdown against Kayla Harrison on the horizon, she openly states that the potential conflict stemming from Harrison`s presence at ATT was the primary reason for her initial departure.
During the UFC 316 post-fight show, Nunes explicitly confirmed, “Yes, I did [leave because of Kayla Harrison].” She explained that after Harrison joined ATT and began training with her coaches, she recognized that a fight between them was inevitable. Nunes felt that remaining at the same gym would create a significant issue for American Top Team owner Dan Lambert, necessitating one of them to leave as training together was simply not feasible.
She pointed out that such conflicts have occurred previously at American Top Team, often resulting in one fighter relocating. Nunes cited examples such as the situations involving Tyron Woodley vs. Robbie Lawler and the tension between Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal, both leading to training splits.
According to Nunes, she sensed the unavoidable nature of their confrontation from the moment Harrison began publicly mentioning her name as a potential opponent. While acknowledging they shared the same training facility for a period, Nunes disputed the notion that they were close, let alone primary training partners. She described a lack of natural connection despite being in the same gym. Nunes recalled training sessions with Harrison often occurring when she was not in peak condition, feeling it was unfair to face her at that time compared to how a fight would be during a full, 100% camp.
With her comeback announced and Harrison having recently secured a victory over Julianna Pena, Nunes expressed excitement about the upcoming challenge. Although she is required to re-enter the UFC`s anti-doping program for six months before competing, she anticipates the fight against Harrison happening before the close of 2025, potentially in November or December.
Looking ahead, Nunes clarified that her return is not just for one fight against Harrison. She intends to pursue regaining her championship belt and then challenging other top contenders in the 135-pound division. Feeling refreshed, mentally strong, and physically healthy with no injuries, Nunes is determined to replicate her past success and continue competing at the highest level.
Marcus Blakely