Julianna Pena told people that while she thinks that she is overdue for a fight, that’s not a reason to rush back into the Octagon. Instead, she is more focused on trying to balance life as a mother and fighter before she decides to make a return to the UFC. Pena, who holds a pro-MMA record of 8-3, won “The Ultimate Fighter Season 18” (TUF 18) reality series.
Even after going 4-1 under the UFC banner, the last time she fought in the Octagon was January 2017. In her last bout, she endured a submission loss to Valentina Shevchenko at UFC on FOX 23. But before that, she gained notable victories over Cat Zingano and Jessica Eye.
Pena explained during a recent social media post detailing her current status (via Instagram):
Not gonna lie. Finding the balance between being a new #mommy and a full time #mma #fighter and commentator🎙, while trying to hold the #house down has not been the easiest of tasks
Women who have kids 👼🏼, take care of the house🏡, and work full time jobs are #superwomen and we do not get enough credit if you ask me! Some of y’all expectations are just wayyy too high!
There are many other #mommy #mma #fighters that I see #makeitwork and they give me #inspiration and #motivation everyday to believe in myself because I know I can do it too!
So… no excuses!! I know I am far overdue for a #fistfight!
I shall find my way back to the #octagon soon but in the meantime, I can’t wait to break in these new @gracieuniversityhq #puffies I just bought !
You can’t tell by the look on my face because that’s my, “I’m ready for war” face, but It’s the little things in life these days that get me #pumped ! Let’s get it ! #ceasargraciejiujitsuwhat
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