Former champion Miesha Tate is gearing up for her return in May, aiming not only to defeat Yana Santos but also to make a final push for the UFC title before she retires.
Recognized as a highly accomplished figure in women`s MMA, Tate took a break from competition in 2024 due to various factors, including ongoing injuries, motherhood, and business ventures. However, Tate asserts she`s returning with renewed determination, hoping that another victory will bring her closer to a title opportunity.
“My ideal scenario is to win this fight, secure another win, and then challenge for the title,” Tate stated in an interview with MMA Fighting. “I’m looking for a quick turnaround because I believe my time in the sport is limited, so I want to make things happen this year. It’s now or never, and I feel like this is my year to make it happen.”
Currently, the path to the UFC title in her division likely goes through Julianna Pena, who recently regained the bantamweight championship. Pena is expected to defend her title against Kayla Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, although the fight date is still pending.
Tate and Pena share a close friendship and extensive training history, including their time together on The Ultimate Fighter, where Tate coached Pena and selected her as her top pick.
Due to their deep connection, Tate admits it would be emotionally challenging if her journey back to title contention culminated in facing Pena for the championship.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that fighting Harrison would circumvent this issue, yet Tate would never wish for Pena to lose.
“Ideally, I would prefer not to fight Julie for the title because of our friendship and shared history. I have immense respect and love for her,” Tate explained. “She was instrumental in my early career, always there as a training partner and supportive presence. I am incredibly grateful for her contributions.”
“So, I want her to win against Kayla, but I also want to fight for the title, and I don’t want to fight Julie. It’s a difficult situation where neither outcome is ideal for me personally. I’m leaving it to fate and the universe to decide how things unfold.”
Despite her reluctance to fight Pena, Tate holds the same view as when she was champion after defeating Holly Holm in 2016.
Tate understood that holding the title meant becoming everyone’s target, and she would never begrudge anyone, including Pena, for pursuing their championship dreams.
“I told her back then that I would never stand in her way,” Tate recalled about her conversation with Pena. “I would never deny her a title shot because it’s about the belt, the dream. It’s not personal.”
“I hope she understands that it would be the same situation – not personal, just about dreams and aspirations. Would I fight Julie for the title? Yes, I would. If that’s the only way, then I would.”
For now, Tate is focused on her fight against Santos on May 3, while Pena`s title defense against Harrison is anticipated in the near future.
Regarding the Pena-Harrison matchup, Tate acknowledges Harrison`s hype and impressive UFC start, but believes Pena presents a significantly different challenge.
“I consistently believe Julie is underrated,” Tate commented. “People on the sidelines often underestimate her power, tenacity, and unique fighting style. Her strikes may not look technically perfect, but they are incredibly impactful. It’s not a gentle tap; it`s like being hit by a truck. That’s what could surprise Kayla.”
Harrison’s exceptional judo skills offer a path to victory, but Tate is hesitant to count Pena out, especially if Pena can turn the fight into a messy, close-quarters battle where she excels.
“Kayla possesses an incredible skillset, undeniably,” Tate stated. “She deserves her current position. However, in a stand-up fight, exchanging blows and testing each other`s will, I know Julie won`t back down. If Kayla can take Julie down, she has a route to victory. But I don`t foresee Kayla winning on the feet, and even on the ground, Julie is incredibly tough. Kayla will likely get her down, but don`t be surprised if Julie reverses position and creates problems for Kayla. Julie has excellent reversals from bottom position.”
“She’s resilient and relentless; Julianna is not easily deterred by damage, as seen in her fight with Amanda Nunes. You practically have to completely overcome Julie to secure a win. That’s my perspective.”
Wesley Dunham