The lioness becomes more ferocious to protect its baby cubs, baring its fangs and claws to any animal they deem dangerous around the pride.
And this is what UFC star Amanda Nunes personified after dominating Megan Anderson with an armbar submission victory in just two minutes and three seconds in the featherweight co-main event of UFC 259 at the Apex in Las Vegas Saturday (Sunday, Manila time).
Speaking to UFC commentator Joe Rogan, the two-division UFC queen admitted feeling amazing after taking home the victory.
"The lion is always dangerous, but when she has a baby, nobody can stop her. Ever," said the 32-year-old Nunes, who holds the bantamweight and featherweight belts. "I'm more dangerous now with my little girl. So nobody's gonna stop me. I'm gonna retire undefeated and with two belts at home."
Nunes' wife, UFC strawweight fighter Nina Ansaroff, gave birth to their firstborn in September. Thanks to their baby daughter Reagan Ann, Nunes had extra motivation coming into the Octagon.
After the fight, the mighty women of UFC shared a light at Octagon's circle in celebration of Nunes' win alongside Reagan.
"The Lioness" is not entirely unbeaten in mixed martial arts though but she is currently the No. 1 pound-for-pound female MMA fighter in the world. With an overall 21-4 record, she only lost once in the promotion against Cat Zingano in September 2014 in UFC 178.
Since then, Nunes rides on a 12-match win streak after taking down UFC superstars in Ronda Rousey, Miesha Tate, Valentina Shevchenko and Holly Holm among others for a 14-1 UFC slate.
It may take some time for UFC to find a match that could pose a serious threat on Nunes, be it in the bantamweight or featherweight. But for now, it will be mother time for "The Lioness."