Amanda Nunes' Rival Irene Aldana Removed from UFC Roster

Amanda Nunes' Rival Irene Aldana Removed from UFC Roster

Irene Aldana, a former UFC bantamweight contender, has been removed from the promotion's roster, MMA Fighting has learned. Aldana, 38, was currently ranked in the top 10 of the 135-pound division in the UFC but hasn't entered the cage since September 2024, when she lost a decision to Norma Dumont on the first Noche UFC card at The Sphere.

What happened?

Aldana reached the title picture in 2023 after back-to-back wins over Yana Santos and Macy Chiasson but came up short in a title bout with Amanda Nunes in 2023, losing a unanimous decision in the main event of UFC 289. The Mexican talent walks away from the promotion with an octagon record of 8-6, including victories over the likes of Brazilian veterans Ketlen Vieira, Bethe Correia, and Karol Rosa.

Why it matters for Amanda Nunes

Aldana's removal from the roster marks the end of a notable chapter in her UFC career, which included a title challenge against Amanda Nunes. Nunes, the reigning UFC women's bantamweight champion, has been on a tear in recent years, with a string of dominant performances that have cemented her status as one of the greatest fighters in the division.

What comes next?

As for Aldana, her future in MMA remains uncertain. With a year-long absence from competition, it's unclear whether she'll return to the Octagon or pursue other opportunities in the sport. One thing is certain, however: Aldana's legacy as a formidable opponent in the UFC will be remembered for years to come.

Aldana's removal from the roster serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of the UFC, where fighters are constantly vying for a spot in the top 10. With a new crop of contenders emerging, the question on everyone's mind is: who's next in line to challenge for the title?

The answer, for now, remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the world of MMA will be watching with bated breath as the next chapter in this ongoing saga unfolds.

The numbers

Aldana's removal from the roster marks the end of a notable chapter in her UFC career, which included a title challenge against Amanda Nunes. Nunes, the reigning UFC women's bantamweight champion, has been on a tear in recent years, with a string of dominant performances that have cemented her status as one of the greatest fighters in the division.

Aldana's record stands at 8-6, with victories over the likes of Brazilian veterans Ketlen Vieira, Bethe Correia, and Karol Rosa. Her loss to Norma Dumont in September 2024 marked the end of a year-long absence from competition.

The future

As for Aldana, her future in MMA remains uncertain. With a year-long absence from competition, it's unclear whether she'll return to the Octagon or pursue other opportunities in the sport. One thing is certain, however: Aldana's legacy as a formidable opponent in the UFC will be remembered for years to come.

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