Irene Aldana is ready to make waves in the Octagon as she prepares to face Amanda Nunes at UFC 289 on June 10. Her long-awaited title fight not only gives Aldana a chance to win the Bantamweight Championship, but it’s also an opportunity to represent her and bring her pride to her nation at large.
Aldana, who will headline the event in Vancouver, is looking to join a select group of Mexican fighters who have already achieved UFC glory in their respective divisions. Among them are reigning flyweight champions Brandon Moreno and Alexa Grasso, as well as interim featherweight titleholder Yair Rodriguez.
In an interview with Megan Oribi, Aldana expressed her determination to follow in her compatriot’s footsteps and become a UFC champion. She emphasized the importance of their success by stating:We have found strength in seeing the success of others. And their success is also a strength.This is very important for Mexico and I am ready to give them the 4th belt“
Aldana’s journey to this title fight was marked by resilience and growth. Currently ranked fifth in the bantamweight division, she has amassed a 14-6 record over the past seven years. Her most recent win for Aldana came in September 2022, when she delivered a knockout blow to Macy Chiasson with a powerful upkick to the body, becoming her third body target KO win in UFC history.
Known for his prodigious talent, Aldana made a big impact with his offensive skills. Her striking stats speak for themselves, with her averaging a staggering 5.61 significant strikes per minute, which ranks fourth in bantamweight history. Additionally, Aldana ranks third all-time in takedown defense and fourth in strike defense among women’s bantamweights, demonstrating her versatility within the Octagon.
But Aldana is well aware that winning against Amanda Nunes will not be easy. Nunes is the most decorated female fighter in UFC history and holds multiple records, including her most wins (15) and most title fight wins (10). Nonetheless, Aldana continues to feel her confidence and honor sharing the Octagon with Nunes.I am honored to share the Octagon with her. But at the moment, I feel so ready for it, and I’m so happy to be here at this time. She’s just enjoying the moment.I am happy with the pressure“
Aldana’s upcoming fights add to a string of notable moments for Mexico in the UFC this year. From Moreno regaining the belt and Grasso becoming the first Mexican woman to win the UFC title, the country’s fighters showcased their skills and made history. Aldana is looking to continue this trend and make her mark at UFC 289, ready to shock the world and make her mark alongside her fellow Mexican champions.
As fight night approaches, all eyes are on Irene Aldana as she steps into the Octagon, ready to go all out and create a legend that will inspire the next generation of fighters in Mexico and beyond.