Issue 146

October 2016

How Amanda Nunes became Brazil’s only undisputed UFC champion at the end of a whirlwind International Fight Week.

Tuesday July 5th

The challenger for the women’s bantamweight title is already in Las Vegas so she can get acclimated and ensure she has the cardio for 25 minutes. “If it passes the first round I’m ready to come strong in the second,” she says.

Wednesday July 6th

While Nunes is relaxing, news breaks that Jon Jones has been removed from the UFC 200 main event for failing a drugs test. She will now be in the marquee event’s new headline fight against Miesha Tate for the 135lb belt.

Thursday July 7th

‘The Lioness’s weight cut is interrupted by the demands of the media, who gather, along with thousands of fans, at the new T-Mobile Arena on the Las Vegas Strip to see Saturday’s main-card championship rivals face-off.

Friday July 8th

It’s weigh-in day under the new UFC system, which means fighters must hit their mark by 10am. Nunes looks the fresher fighter as she makes weight with plenty of time to spare, but Tate struggles and barely makes it to the scales on time.

Saturday July 9th

Headlining UFC 200, Nunes makes the fight look easy by destroying her opponent in round one. “When I saw she was a little bit hurt I controlled myself, but I made sure I touched her in the right spot so she wouldn’t come back,” she says.

Sunday July 10th

The post-fight presser is in the early hours, but Nunes is wide awake to welcome a challenge from Ronda Rousey, or anyone else at 135lb. “Whatever the UFC put on the line, I’m going to take it. I’m the champion now,” she says. 

Monday July 11th

The Brazilian returns to Florida and American Top Team to add her belt to the gym’s collection of championships. She posts on Twitter: “Thank you so much everyone for all the positive energy. The belt is home!”