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In a surprising twist of fate, Kayla Harrison, the two-time Olympic gold medalist judoka and two-time PFL champion, is set to make her UFC debut as a bantamweight sensation. The news was officially unveiled by UFC CEO Dana White, who announced Harrison's exclusive deal with the premier mixed martial arts organization.
The highlight of this groundbreaking signing is Harrison's debut clash at UFC 300 against none other than former bantamweight champion Holly Holm. The epic showdown is scheduled to take place on April 13 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, adding an extra layer of excitement to the monumental UFC 300 card.
Harrison, who spent her entire MMA career with the PFL, recently entered free agency, paving the way for her historic move to the UFC. Despite PFL's attempts to retain her, the 33-year-old Ohio native chose to embrace the challenges and opportunities presented by the UFC.
With a remarkable 16-1 record, Harrison's only setback came in a decision against Larissa Pacheco in 2022. Her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by victories over UFC veteran Aspen Ladd and two previous wins over Pacheco. Now, Harrison faces a new challenge as she transitions from lightweight and featherweight to the bantamweight division.
Reflecting on her decision, Harrison acknowledged the sacrifices required for the move.
"I'm going to have to lose a piece of me to be able to fight at 135 pounds," she admitted.
The shift to bantamweight signifies a significant lifestyle change for the judo powerhouse, who recognizes the importance of proper nutrition, sleep, and recovery in her journey.
In her bantamweight debut, Kayla Harrison will step into the Octagon against Holly Holm, a former 135-pound champion and a formidable presence in the UFC rankings. Holm's recent record, going 3-1 with one no-contest in her last five fights, only adds to the anticipation surrounding this high-stakes matchup.
As the latest addition to the UFC 300 card, Harrison vs. Holm promises to be a defining moment in women's MMA. The event is currently without a main event, leaving fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the historic night when two exceptional fighters collide in a battle for supremacy.