One of the biggest upsets in UFC history took place when Julianna Pena fought the undisputed GOAT of Women’s MMA, Amanda Nunes at UFC 269.
The American born mixed martial artist went into that fight as a huge underdog. But, Julianna Pena survived the early storm from Nunes and went brawled with her in the second round before submitting her with a rear naked choke.
After becoming the UFC bantamweight champion, Julianna Pena’s life has changed completely. The spotlight is on her now and she loves every bit of it. Talking about how her life changed after winning the title and what she aims to achieve in the future, Pena says: “It’s a great thing to be able to reach as many people as possible. That’s what I’m trying to do. I love hitting those media targets because I want more people from around the globe to know who I am and follow on my journey.”
But, the journey for Julianna Pena started back in 2009 when she made had her first amateur fight and won by decision. Pena would go on to win the Ultimate Fighter Season 18, which would bring her much deserving credibility.
Since then, Pena has had an incredible run in UFC. But, there are many untold stories behind her journey. And one of them certainly is the mystery behind her nickname. What does it really mean?
Julianna Pena nickname and its meaning
The UFC bantamweight champion, Julianna Pena calls herself “The Venezuelan Vixen”. And the meaning behind the name is quite inspiring. Though Pena represents the United States as an athlete her father was born in Venezuela. And that is the origin of her nickname “The Venezuelan Vixen”.
In an interview with UFCespanol, when asked about her nickname, Pena said:
“My dad was born in La Chica, Venezuela. And he came over here and my coach just decided to name me. (He) said I had a lot of fire and passion and it just stucked.”
Julianna Pena might not be the most skilled women fighter in UFC. However, she is one of the entertaining women fighters in UFC. Not a lot of women fighters pay a huge role when it comes to media and selling the fights.
However, Julianna Pena does not shy away from speaking her mind and play mindgames with opponents with her trash talk before the fights. Her trash talk certainly played a big role in the fight against Amanda Nunes.
When the entire world doubted her abilities Julianna Pena believed in herself and defied all the odds to become the champion. Before even making a name in UFC, Pena told Dana White that she would become the UFC champion in future.
There are a lot of stories about Pena that displays her courage and passion Pena. So it’s needless to say that the nickname “The Venezuelan Vixen” certainly suits her personality.
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