Miesha Tate’s Octagon Return: Squaring Off Against Yana Santos at Upcoming UFC Fight Night

Former bantamweight titleholder Miesha Tate is preparing for her comeback to the UFC after more than a year away from competition. She’s slated to face Yana Santos at an upcoming UFC Fight Night event on May 3, with Des Moines, Iowa, rumored as the potential venue.

Tate herself broke the news on social media, with Santos promptly confirming the matchup. “It’s official: May 3rd vs Yana Santos,” Tate announced. “I’m still at the top of my game, and if you’re skeptical, just watch. Save the date.”

Since ending her nearly five-year retirement in 2021, Tate has experienced a mix of victories and setbacks, including a brief foray into the flyweight division. Her overall record since returning stands at 2-2, with her most recent bout resulting in a submission victory over Julia Avila in December 2023.

Santos, on the other hand, recently snapped a three-fight losing streak by securing a unanimous decision win against Chelsea Chandler last August. This victory came after consecutive losses to Karol Rosa, Holly Holm, and Irene Aldana.

While the UFC has yet to officially announce the May 3 event or its location, if Des Moines is confirmed, it would mark the organization’s first return to Iowa since UFC 26 in 2000.