Pena (photo via FOX SPORTS 2)

By FCF Staff

Following Julianna Pena’s triumphant and impressive return to the Octagon last weekend, UFC President Dana White has heaped praise on the former TUF winner.

Pena took on Milana Dudieva at UFC FN 63, and went on to stop the bantamweight in the opening round. The fight was Pena’s first since she suffered a devastating knee injury, not long after she defeated Jessica Rakoczy in November, 2013.

Recently White spoke with UFC.com, and here is some of what he had to say about the 6-2 fighter.

“Julianna looked incredible. The girl she fought was tough, and she looked unbelievable,” White said. “She is without a doubt one of the best in the world in that division. It’s exciting to have her back. When she left she was ranked number 10. We have to give her a tough fight – a top 10 fight. I’m going to give her a call and see how quick she wants to turn around and fight again.”

White went on to say that Pena could be “three fights” away from a title shot. The 25 year-old fighter has relayed on several occasions that she hopes to fight reigning champ, Ronda Rousey.