Former champion Miesha Tate is gearing up for her comeback fight in May, aiming not only to defeat Yana Santos but also to make a strong push for another UFC title before she retires.
Recognized as a highly accomplished figure in women`s MMA, Tate took a break in 2024 due to various factors, including injuries, motherhood, and business ventures. However, she asserts her return with renewed vigor, hoping that a second consecutive victory will significantly advance her towards a title opportunity.
“Ideally, I’d like to win this fight, secure another win, and then challenge for the title,” Tate told MMA Fighting. “I’m aiming for a quick turnaround because I believe my time in the sport is valuable, not unlimited, so I want to make things happen this year. We`ll see how it unfolds. I feel like this year is crucial for me to either achieve my goals or not.”
Currently, the path to the UFC title likely involves Julianna Pena, who recently regained the bantamweight championship. Pena is expected to defend her title against Kayla Harrison later this year, although the 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 to victory.
Given their deep connection, Tate acknowledges the mixed emotions she would face if her pursuit of the UFC title led to a confrontation with Pena.
The situation becomes even more complex as fighting Harrison would avoid this dilemma, yet Tate would never wish for Pena to lose.
“Ideally, I don’t want to fight Julie for the title because of our friendship and history, and my deep respect and love for her,” Tate explained. “She was instrumental in my early career, always there as a training partner. I’m very grateful for her contributions.”
“So, I want her to win against Kayla, but I also want to fight for the title, and I’d rather not fight Julie. It’s a difficult situation where neither outcome is ideal. I’m leaving it to fate to decide.”
Despite her reluctance to fight Pena, Tate`s stance mirrors her mentality as champion in 2016. She understood that holding the title meant being a target, and she wouldn`t begrudge anyone, including Pena, for seeking a title shot.
“I told her I would never stand in her way,” Tate recalled about a past 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 this is also not personal. Friendship aside, it’s about dreams and aspirations. Would I fight Julie for a title? Yes, I would. If that’s what it comes down to, then I would.”
First, Tate must overcome Santos on May 3. Pena is expected to defend her title against Harrison soon after.
Regarding the Pena vs. Harrison fight, Tate recognizes the hype around Harrison but believes Pena`s capabilities are often underestimated. She emphasizes Pena’s strength, resilience, and unorthodox fighting style, which can be surprisingly effective.
“I always think Julie is underrated,” Tate stated. “From the outside, it’s easy to underestimate her power and tenacity. Her style might look awkward, but it’s incredibly challenging to face. Her strikes are not always conventional, but when they land, they are incredibly impactful, unlike anything else in the division. It’s like being hit by a truck. I think that’s where Kayla could be caught off guard.”
Harrison’s judo skills pose a significant threat, but Tate believes Pena should never be counted out, especially in a gritty, close-quarters fight.
“Kayla has incredible skills, undeniably,” Tate acknowledged. “She deserves her position. But in a stand-up fight, in a slugfest, Julie won’t back down. If Kayla can take Julie down, she has a path to victory. But I don’t see Kayla winning on the feet at all. And even on the ground, Julie is tough. Kayla might get her down, but don’t be surprised if Julie reverses and gains top position, which would be a nightmare for Kayla. Julie is excellent at reversals from the bottom.”
“She’s incredibly tenacious and resilient. Julianna can absorb tremendous damage and keep going, as we saw in the Amanda Nunes fight. You practically have to finish Julie to win. That’s how I see it.”
