Miesha Tate’s Comeback Won’t Be Easy—Ranked Contender Stands in Her Way

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Feb 18, 2025 2:49 PM ET

Stepping back into the Octagon after a long break is like showing up to a high school reunion—you hope you still got it, but there’s always someone waiting to remind you of the years you’ve been away.

The next big comeback fight is set, and this could be a test. Across the cage stands a ranked opponent with something to prove, looking to welcome the returning former UFC Champion with a fistful of reality. No warm-up rounds, just straight back into the fire.

Seventeen months since her last fight, Miesha Tate (27-8-0) is back, announcing her return via Instagram, stating, "It's official: May 3rd vs. @yanamma I’ve still got what it takes, and if you doubt me, please stick around. Mark your calendars."

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A post shared by Miesha Tate (@mieshatate)

Yana Santos (15-8-0, 1 NC) is the one waiting for her. Santos has taken two wins in her last five fights, including a recent unanimous decision over Chelsea Chandler. Not exactly a wrecking ball, but definitely not an opponent to overlook—especially when you’re dusting off the gloves after more than a year away. Timing, cardio, fight rhythm—it all gets questioned when a veteran steps back in after a layoff.

That layoff? A submission win over Julia Avila, who went on to fight once more before retiring. It may not have been the final chapter of Avila’s career, but for Tate, it was a statement victory and a reminder of her submission prowess. Now, she’s returning to see if she can still shake up the division. And if history tells us anything, she’s not making a comeback just to fade into the background. She’s here to fight—and maybe remind a few people why they started watching in the first place.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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