What do you think the future of the women’s featherweight division is now that Amanda Nunes is champion?
Michael Grocke, MMATorch Fight Handicapper
Amanda Nunes’ stunning first-round knockout of Cris Cyborg at UFC 232 helps the floundering women’s featherweight division. But very little. Had Cyborg won there wouldn’t be anyone left for her to face that would pique the fan’s interest. Except possibly, Megan Anderson.
Now, with Nunes as champion, there are potential match-ups with the aforementioned Megan Anderson, whose height and reach might give Nunes trouble, Cat Zingano, who can’t seem to catch a break, Holly Holm and not to mention a possible rematch with Cyborg.
The problem with these fights, however, is Amanda Nunes would be a heavy favorite against all but possibly Cyborg. Also, regardless of how the UFC has promoted Nunes, she doesn’t have the crossover appeal that would make her a PPV draw. In my opinion, Megan Anderson becoming champion would be the best thing for the division.
Sean Covington, Columnist – Covington’s Corner
That division should be gone just like the one Henry Cejudo will be the future former champion of. There is no competition at all and there won’t be any for at least two years, no one has gained enough momentum and the gap between her and the rest of women’s MMA is staggering.
NEXT: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY FRO UFC 232
Michael Hiscoe, MMATorch Managing Editor
I don’t think the future of the featherweight division looks very good. The division existed entirely for Cris Cyborg. The bulk of Cris Cyborg’s appeal was her invincibility, with that gone so is much of her value. They can squeeze one more rematch, and if Cyborg wins that, a few more fights, but if Nunes retains that title, there’s little reason to continue staying in the Cyborg business and maintaining that division, such as it is. Besides, there are much more interesting fights for Nunes at 135, and that’s where the promotion’s focus should be.
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