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Amanda Nunes breaks silence after UFC 324 cancellation in post with Kayla Harrison’s greatest rival

Originally posted on Bloody Elbow | By Jordan Ellis | Last updated Jan 16, 2026 3:41 PM ET

Amanda Nunes has posted on social media for the first time since her comeback fight was cancelled.

The former dual-weight champion retired after beating Irene Aldana over five rounds at UFC 289 in June 2023.

UFC 324 was supposed to see Amanda Nunes return in a co-main event bout for bantamweight gold.

Unfortunately, their fight has been postponed due to Kayla Harrison suffering a serious neck injury.

Amanda Nunes breaks her silence after UFC 324 setback

Amanda Nunes stayed silent in the immediate aftermath of Kayla Harrison’s withdrawal from UFC 324.

Even now, ‘The Lioness’ hasn’t issued a direct reaction to her highly anticipated comeback falling through – but she has issued a cryptic update that strongly suggests her desire to fight again is still very strong.

On Friday, Nunes shared footage from her training sessions on Instagram, with the caption: “The flame continues to live.”

View this post on Instagram

The 37-year-old is seen grappling with Larissa Pacheco, who is Harrison’s greatest MMA rival.

Nunes’ return opponent won by unanimous decision when she first fought Pacheco in December 2019.

The Brazilian got her revenge via the judges’ scorecards when they rematched at PFL 10 in June 2022.

Four years later, Pacheco is still the only woman who has gotten the better of Harrison in MMA.

Nunes will be hoping she gets the chance to repeat the feat once Harrison is fit and ready to fight.

Kayla Harrison’s update from hospital

Kayla Harrison fought back tears when she spoke out on her UFC 324 withdrawal.

The 135lb queen gave fans an update from her hospital bed on Thursday.

“I just wanted to give a bit of an update on my end,” Harrison said.

“Yeah, this is a tough one. I had to have surgery on my neck yesterday here in New York City with the specialist, Dr Kim. So, obviously, in lieu of that, we’re gonna have to reschedule the fight.

“I just want to say I’m sorry. I’m sorry to Amanda, I was really looking forward to it, and I just want to thank everyone. I want to thank the UFC for taking such good care of me.

“This is day one of recovery, and the road back starts now… That’s it, I’m sorry, guys. I’ll be back soon, I’ll be back soon.”

This article first appeared on Bloody Elbow and was syndicated with permission.

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