Julianna Pena, the former UFC women's bantamweight champion, has publicly expressed her support for a recent United States military operation in Venezuela. The action led to the capture of the country's President, Nicolás Maduro. Pena, who is famously known by her fighting nickname "The Venezuelan Vixen," shared her strong views in a detailed social media post.
Pena's Personal Connection to Venezuela
In a long message posted on Instagram, Pena explained the deep personal reasons behind her stance. She wrote the post in both English and Spanish to reach a wider audience. The Mixed Martial Arts fighter spoke about her heritage, stating she is proud of her mixed roots from the United States, Venezuela, Mexico, and Native American ancestry.
She revealed that her nickname, "The Venezuelan Vixen," was chosen specifically to honour her father's lineage and has become a core part of her identity in the UFC. Pena shared fond childhood memories of visiting Venezuela with her family. She described falling in love with the nation's rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning natural beauty. She recalled a time when the country was prosperous and full of potential.
A Nation Transformed Under Maduro's Rule
However, Pena stated that the situation changed dramatically over the past fifteen years following Nicolás Maduro's rise to power. She detailed how her family's life and the condition of the country transformed. What was once a thriving and welcoming place became dangerous and unstable.
Pena explained that her relatives received warnings against returning to Venezuela due to the widespread fear, suffering, and immense difficulties faced by people under Maduro's leadership. These personal and family experiences profoundly shaped her perspective on the current political situation.
Support for US Action and Hope for the Future
These experiences directly influenced her view on the United States' intervention. Pena stated that she fully supports what the US administration achieved on January 3. She expressed a heartfelt hope that this action could mark the beginning of a new chapter for Venezuela, steering it toward freedom and a better future.
Pena longs for a Venezuela that resembles the nation she remembers from her childhood visits. She added that she remains fiercely proud of her Venezuelan identity, even if others question it. Notably, Pena is not alone in her reaction. Several other Venezuelan-born UFC fighters have also voiced similar opinions on social media platforms, indicating a shared sentiment within the combat sports community connected to the country.
Her message ultimately carries a tone of optimism, expressing a desire for renewal and peace for the land of her father.
