Amanda Nunes Reveals Training Glimpse Ahead of Kayla Harrison Superfight at UFC 324

A Familiar Face in Camp

Standing next to Nunes in the photo was a training partner who knows Harrison better than almost anyone: Larissa Pacheco.

Pacheco is the only fighter to ever defeat Harrison, handing the two-time Olympic gold medalist her lone professional loss via unanimous decision in their third meeting for the 2022 PFL lightweight championship. While Harrison won the first two encounters unanimous decision victories in May 2019 and the 2019 PFL title fight—Pacheco’s breakthrough win remains a key data point as Nunes prepares to challenge for the women’s bantamweight crown.

Now a two-time PFL champion herself, Pacheco brings firsthand experience against Harrison’s grappling-heavy style, strength, and pace an invaluable resource for Nunes as she fine-tunes her return.

Harrison vs. Nunes Looms Large

Harrison (19-1 MMA, 3-0 UFC) enters the matchup riding momentum in the UFC after a dominant start to her run. While Nunes (23-5 MMA, 16-2 UFC) returns as arguably the most accomplished female fighter in MMA history. At 35, Harrison is chasing legacy-defining gold; Nunes, a UFC Hall of Famer, is looking to reclaim the throne she vacated upon retirement.

What’s Next for Pacheco

Pacheco, 31, recently parted ways with the Professional Fighters League and hasn’t competed since an October 2024 loss to Cris Cyborg. For now, her focus appears to be on helping Nunes prepare for the biggest women’s fight of 2026.

With elite experience, personal history against Harrison, and championship pedigree in her corner. Nunes’ return is taking shape as more than a nostalgia run it’s a calculated bid to make one more statement on the sport’s biggest stage.