Spencer knew she was fighting Nunes: 'I'm excited to shock the world'
Felicia Spencer had no doubt in her mind she'd be fighting for the women's featherweight title next.
The 29-year-old Canadian stopped Zarah Fairn in the first round of UFC Norfolk on Feb. 29. Meanwhile, fellow 145-pound fighter Megan Anderson also finished her opponent Norma Dumont in the same event. Even with Spencer defeating Anderson last year, there was some question as to who would earn the next title shot based on their respective performances. However, Spencer was confident throughout the entire process.
"Honestly, I thought 100%," Spencer told theScore when speaking about her title fight at UFC 250 against champion Amanda Nunes. "To me, the only thing that would have stopped it is if we couldn't come to a good contract, you know? Obviously the contract I’m under doesn't include anything near what I should be making for a title shot. So for me, it was like (the UFC's) going to call me first. Then if things don't work out, then good for Megan (Anderson). She’ll get a shot and I’ll get the next one. But I was very confident."
Spencer (8-1) bounced back from her unanimous decision setback against Cris Cyborg at UFC 241. Despite that being her first career loss, many fans were impressed with Spencer's performance after going three rounds with a former UFC champion. The Jungle MMA product believes that experience will pay dividends in the championship fight.
"Knowing that in those moments, I can be better than I did in the Cyborg fight," she said. "Hopefully, it will feel a little bit familiar. As far as the rest of the world, it kind of helps put me in a position where people are giving me a better shot at winning. I'm excited to shock the world this time."
Nunes (19-4) carries a 10-fight win streak into her first featherweight title defense. Spencer plans to bring Nunes into her world and execute a smart game plan.
"I think there (are) smart ways to approach Amanda. I don't think I'll be drawn into a brawl where she can shine with some of her boxing and kicks. I want to be unpredictable on my feet. But also be ready to grind and pull her where I want her. I think my grinding style will play to my advantage a lot, especially being a five-round fight."
Spencer, who accepted the title fight just six days after her last matchup, refuses to bask in the victory. Instead, the focus is purely on this championship bout.
"A lot of my mind is just focused on the work that's ahead. I’m not getting wrapped up with all the excitement. Exactly this week a year ago, I was getting signed to the UFC. Now I'm three fights in and fighting my second legend within 10 months. I'm just happy and just soaking it in and going to run with it."
UFC 250 takes place on May 9 at Ginasio do Ibirapuera arena in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Look for our full video interview with Spencer on theScoreMMA podcast this week and in the meantime, subscribe to theScoreMMA Youtube channel here.