Jon Jones has done it again. He has once again proved that he is, arguably, one of the best martial artists of all time. He is the recipient of the 2023 ESPY Fighter of The Year award. While his fans are extremely happy, there is a UFC superstar, who recently retired, and thought she would be considered for the ESPY award.
Former UFC fighter Amanda Nunes took to Twitter to express her ‘disbelief’ over the fact that she was, once again, overlooked for the ESPY award. Jon Jones’ win over Ciryl Gane put him back on the radar with a ‘G.O.A.T.’ status and although Nunes retired with a win, she didn’t get the award this year.
Amanda Nunes hoped for more – The ESPY Award that got away
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Nunes is as brazen as they come. She retired after her last fight against Irene Aldana, securing a great win and etching her name as one of the greatest female UFC fighters to have stepped foot in the Octagon.
The ESPY Fighter of The Year award for 2023 was conferred on Jon Jones, the UFC Heavyweight champion. Nunes didn’t take this news well and took to Twitter to voice her displeasure against being overlooked for The Fighter of The Year award, yet again.
“I can believe I didn’t get the @ESPYS again @espnmma @ufc 🙄 😒”, read Nunes’ caption.
I can believe I didn’t get the @ESPYS again @espnmma @ufc 🙄 😒
— Amanda Nunes (@Amanda_Leoa) July 9, 2023
She was visibly disappointed with the decision.
Jon Jones made his way back to the ring and although his fight against Francis Ngannou fizzled out, he defeated Ciryl Gane to become the UFC Heavyweight champion. Nunes retired after defeating Aldana. Could Nunes leaving the UFC be a factor in her getting passed up for the ESPY award? Or was Jon Jones’ comeback just as impressive?
Nunes Post Retirement – Plans and Lifestyle
UFC 289 – Amanda Nunes secures a dominant win over Irene Aldana, securing her position as champion. However, the night ended with Nunes’ fans left heartbroken. Nunes announced her retirement after the fight.
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UFC and WWE have come under the same umbrella – Endeavor. Now, it will be easier for the fighters who retire from the UFC to foray into wrestling. Amanda Nunes seems to be open to the idea of getting a ‘suitable’ WWE contract and moving to the promotion, where her former adversary, Ronda Rousey, would be waiting. Although it is rumoured Rousey is planning to leave and make a return to the UFC.
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Will she make a comeback to the UFC like so many other legendary fighters have? Or will she become the next big WWE star? Let us know.
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