The Lioness Legacy: Spotlight on the 2023 Donruss UFC No. 18 Amanda Nunes
In the world of sports card collecting, few names command as much respect as Amanda "The Lioness" Nunes. As arguably the greatest female fighter to ever step into the Octagon, her cards represent a piece of combat sports history. Today, we are taking an in-depth look at a standout from the 2023 season: the 2023 Donruss UFC No. 18 Amanda Nunes "The Untouchables" insert.
Card Profile: 2023 Donruss "The Untouchables" #18
The 2023 Donruss UFC set introduced "The Untouchables" as a premium insert series, and card #18 features Nunes in her dominant bantamweight form. This card is visually spectacular, utilizing a high-gloss finish and a geometric shard-like background that creates a 3D depth effect. It captures the regal and fierce nature of the woman who held both the Bantamweight and Featherweight titles simultaneously.
Market Value and Collectibility
- Ungraded/Raw Value: Typically trades between $1.50 and $5.00 depending on condition and seller.
- Silver Press Proof: A popular parallel that adds a metallic sheen, usually commanding a 2x premium over base inserts.
- Orange Laser / Holo Variants: These rare parallels have been known to fetch between $25.00 and $75.00, especially if they are low-numbered or carry high grades like a PSA 10.
- The "Sunset" Appeal: Because 2023 was the year Nunes initially retired, this card is often viewed as a "final chapter" collectible, making it a must-have for legacy sets.
The Postponed Super-Fight: UFC 324
The MMA community was set to witness history on January 24, 2026, at UFC 324. Amanda Nunes was scheduled to end her retirement and face the reigning bantamweight champion, Kayla Harrison, in a fight dubbed the biggest women's MMA match ever. However, just days before the event, the fight was officially postponed.
The Reason: Kayla Harrison suffered a severe neck injury that required immediate surgery. Specifically, Harrison underwent a procedure in New York City with specialist Dr. Kim to repair herniated discs that were causing significant nerve issues. Harrison released a tearful update from her hospital bed, confirming she would be sidelined for several months. While the UFC hopes to rebook this "clash of the titans" for later in 2026, the bantamweight division currently remains in a state of limbo.
Exclusive Coverage: The Fallout
What is this video about? This featured footage provides an in-depth analysis of the UFC 324 cancellation. It features expert reactions to Kayla Harrison’s injury, the logistical fallout for the UFC's new broadcast partnership with Paramount+, and the immediate response from Amanda Nunes, who expressed her disappointment but remained adamant that she will only return for the undisputed belt—refusing to entertain any interim title offers.
Whether you are a fan of her striking or her status as a sports card icon, Amanda Nunes remains the undisputed "Lioness" of the sport. As we wait for her return to the cage, the 2023 Donruss No. 18 stands as a testament to her legendary status.
Comments
Post a Comment