Tate stole Holm's belt at UFC 196. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC
Many people were surprised by the announcement that Miesha Tate will make her first UFC title defense against the Brazilian Amanda nunes, at UFC 200, on July 9th. But, according to the former champion's manager Holly holm, Ultimate's plans were different, with Miesha herself choosing who she would like to face.
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According to Lenny Fresquez, the UFC offered the proposal so that Holm could avenge the submission defeat she suffered in March, at UFC 196. However, Miesha refused and chose the Bahian to be her opponent in her first title defense.
“They told me it was Tate’s choice. Holly was offered it to her, but she chose Nunes. She chose to face a weaker opponent. She's not as direct as Holly, as she always wants to face the best. Holly gave [Miesha] a chance, but we are disappointed that the favor was not returned”, said Fresquez, in an interview with the North American newspaper “Albuquerque Journal”.
At UFC 196, on March 5, Holm made his first title defense. The then champion had the best score until the fifth round, when she was submitted by Miesha. That was the first defeat for Holly, who was coming off a spectacular knockout against Ronda Rousey at the end of 2015.
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