Former UFC champions who are popular with fans will be returning to the Octagon.
Miesha “Cupcake”, the former UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champ, has confirmed her return to competition on May 3rd. The Russian Bantamweight Yana ‘Foxy’ Santos is scheduled to be her opponent. The highly-anticipated matchup promises a clash of styles, experience and expertise.
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UFC Fight Night on May 3, is likely to take place at Des Moines in Iowa. Tate and Santos are expected to engage in an experienced competitor’s battle.
Tate revealed on Twitter that “It’s official! May 3rd is vs Yana”. Instagram.
If you still doubt my abilities, then please stay around. “Mark your calendars.”
Santos expressed on Twitter her excitement for the fight and respect for Tate. Instagram.
What a matchup! “Thank you UFC, for giving me so many opportunities,” posted the woman.
It’s a real dream for me to be in (the) Octagon alongside Miesha. “I will bring the best of me.”
Yana is a UFC veteran and former Invicta FC Bantamweight Champion with a 15-8-1 (1 non-contest) MMA Record. Santos’ last fight was in August, at UFC APEX. She won by unanimous decision over Chelsea Chandler. Santos’ win brought an end to her three-fight losing run, including losses to Irene Aldana Holly Holm and Karol Rosa.
Miesha Tate hopes to capitalize on recent successes. Miesha Tate ended her two-fight skid in her last bout by subduing Julia Avila using a third-round Face Crank at UFC Austin on December 20, 2023. After a difficult period, “Cupcake’s” return to form was boosted by this win.
Tate gained initial prominence in Strikeforce due to her feud with Ronda. Tate previously held the Women’s 135 pound title, but lost it to Rousey during a high-profile fight in March of 2012.
Tate and Rousey’s rivalry has continued to the UFC. They both coach opposing teams in The Ultimate Fighter. Rousey won the title at UFC 168 by retaining her UFC Bantamweight championship via a third-round armbar.
Tate bounced back with four victories in a row over Liz Carmouche. Rin Nakai. Sara McMann. Jessica Eye. The impressive streak allowed Tate to challenge Holly Holm for the title. Holm had recently dethroned Rousey with a stunning upset.
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Tate’s comeback was remarkable. He won the UFC championship by submitting Holm in the fifth round of UFC 196.
Tate lost her UFC 200 title in the main fight to Amanda Nunes. After this defeat, Tate had a mixed career that culminated with her win over Avila.
Miesha is ready to fight again after an 18 month hiatus. She will be aiming to win her 21st match of the career against Yana.
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