Dana hits the brakes when talking about Amanda Nunes' retirement: 'Maybe I should'

D. White at a UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC

UFC president Dana White backtracked on commenting on UFC's possible retirement Amanda nunes of MMA. The 'boss', who had joked that he would 'kill' the athlete if she retired from the sport, hit the brakes and stated that he will support any decision made by the 'Lionea' regarding her future in the sport.

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“I hope she doesn’t retire. She is one of my favorite people in this world. And coming off a performance like the last one she had (against Felicia spencer, on June 6). She was incredible, she performed surgically against one of the toughest fighters I've ever seen in my life. And, after a performance like that, I would hate to think that she wants to retire, but, if it's true that she is really thinking about it, she should probably (leave the sport)”, said the 'boss' in a recent press conference.

A sports promoter for more than 20 years, White has never hidden his thoughts regarding athletes who begin to lean towards supposed retirement. On several occasions, regardless of the athlete, Dana stated that the athlete must be focused on the sport. Otherwise, he should hang up his gloves.

With Amanda, however, the situation can be considered a little different. The president knows that he has in his company an athlete who is considered, by many, to be the best fighter of all time and still in her prime. Thinking about keeping his pupil, White then stated that he is working with his team to find the best options for the Bahian's future.

“I told the matchmakers (responsible for booking the fights) another day to start creating the featherweight division (up to 65,7kg) for her. Let's do this, let's get started, sign more girls and let's expand the category. And now my girl is talking about retirement. So apparently we need to talk to be on the same page,” she said.

Even if she decides not to retire from MMA, it is almost unlikely that Nunes will perform again in 2020. The Brazilian is close to becoming a mother for the first time and White intends to give the 'Lione' some time to enjoy her family.

"I love this girl. I want time with her. The baby is coming, she has a lot of cool things happening in her life right now. I think she's at a point in her life where she's starting to enjoy it and enjoy it, and that all changes when you have a lot of money,” she concluded.