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 bid for another UFC title before she retires.
Tate, a highly respected figure in women`s MMA, took a break from competition in 2024 due to injuries, motherhood, and business ventures. However, she asserts her return is fueled by a desire for success, hoping consecutive wins will propel her towards a title opportunity.
“My ideal scenario is to win my next fight, secure another victory, and then challenge for the title,” Tate stated in an interview with MMA Fighting. “I’m looking for a quick turnaround because I want to make the most of my time in the sport. This year feels crucial – it’s my chance to make it happen.”
Currently, a path to the UFC title likely involves Julianna Pena, the two-time bantamweight champion after her win against Raquel Pennington. Pena is expected to defend her title against Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison later this year, although the date is yet to be confirmed.
Tate and Pena share a deep bond, having trained together for many years, including their time on The Ultimate Fighter, where Tate coached Pena and selected her as her top pick.
Due to their close relationship, Tate admits it would be emotionally challenging to earn a title shot only to face Pena for the championship.
The situation is complicated further by the fact that fighting Harrison would avoid this conflict, 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,” Tate explained. “I have immense respect and love for her. She was a crucial training partner early in my career. I’m so thankful 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 with no perfect outcome. I`m leaving it to fate to decide.”
Despite her preference to avoid fighting Pena, Tate`s stance mirrors her mindset after winning the title in 2016.
Tate understood that becoming champion meant being targeted, and she wouldn`t begrudge anyone, including Pena, for pursuing the title.
“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, it’s about the dream. It’s not personal.”
“I hope she understands it’s not personal either. It`s about aspirations and goals, friendship aside. Would I fight Julie for the title? Yes, I would. If that’s what it comes down to, then I would.”
Tate`s immediate focus is on her fight with Santos on May 3rd, while Pena is anticipated to defend her title against Harrison soon.
Regarding the Pena vs. Harrison matchup, Tate acknowledges Harrison`s hype and impressive UFC debut, but emphasizes Pena`s underestimated abilities.
“Julie is much better than people realize,” Tate commented. “From the outside, it’s easy to underestimate her power and resilience. Her unorthodox style can be very difficult to deal with in the cage.”
“Julie’s striking is solid. It might not look flashy, but when she hits you, it’s incredibly impactful – like getting hit by a truck. It’s not something Kayla should underestimate.”
While Harrison’s judo skills present a clear path to victory, Tate believes Pena is always a threat, especially in a gritty, close-quarters fight.
“Kayla has exceptional skills, no doubt,” Tate stated. “She deserves her position. But in a stand-up fight, in a brawl, 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. And even on the ground, Julie is incredibly tough. Kayla might get her down, but don`t be surprised if Julie reverses and ends up on top, which would be a nightmare for Kayla. Julie has great escapes and reversals.”
“She’s tough and relentless. Julianna won’t be deterred by damage. We saw that against Amanda Nunes. You practically have to finish Julie to win. That’s how I see it.”
