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Tatiana Suarez has announced that her long-awaited return to the octagon will take place in February 2023.
The American was forced to the sidelines in 2019 following a string of injuries, including a pestering neck issue. Her last fight was in June 2019 against Nina Nunes at UFC 238.
The undefeated fighter was touted as a title challenger despite only four fights in the promotion. Suarez has defeated several high-level competitors in the UFC, with finishes against Alexa Grasso and former two-time UFC strawweight champion Carla Esparza.
During a recent exchange with a fan on her Instagram page, Suarez revealed her return date. When asked if she'll ever fight again, Suarez replied:
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"Yeah in February"
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The Ultimate Fighter 23 winner will no doubt be itching to feel the coveted UFC cavas underneath her feet, and is expected to move up a weight class for her first fight back. Another fan asked her if she'll be returning at 115 pounds or 125 pounds, and Suarez confirmed that she'll be fighting at flyweight.
A potential opponent is unclear at this stage, as the UFC have not hinted at who Tatiana Suarez could face upon her return. However, with 2023 almost rearing its head, an announcement must be imminent.
MMA Analyst Luke Thomas thinks Tatiana Suarez could "hammer through everybody" at 125 pounds
Respected MMA analyst Luke Thomas and co-host of the Morning Kombat podcast Brian Campbell recently predicted the outcome of the UFC's divisions for 2023.
Whilst discussing which top contenders at flyweight could fall and which may rise, Thomas was sure to mention the anticipated return of Tatiana Suarez. According to the MMA analyst, she has the ability to make a devastating impact on the division in the coming year.
The two-time World Wrestling Championship bronze medalist could be in contention for the title by the end of next year, according to Thomas, who said the following:
"You forgot a key name, I believe, the return of Tatiana Suarez. She could come back to this division and just absolutely - now we don't know 'cause she's been out for so long and she had the neck injury, but if she comes back she might just hammer through everybody along the way."
Watch the video below (56:00):
