In a historic matchup, Holly Holm and Kayla Harrison, two highly accomplished athletes in women’s combat sports history, are set to face each other at UFC 300. This announcement came after UFC CEO Dana White revealed that Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo and two-time PFL champion, has been signed to an exclusive contract with the UFC. The fight between these two legends will take place on April 13 in Las Vegas, at a weight of 135 pounds.
The UFC securing the signing of Kayla Harrison is undoubtedly significant news in itself. Harrison, age 33, has been an influential figure in the PFL since her debut in MMA in 2018. Throughout her career, she has primarily fought under the PFL banner, predominantly in the 155-pound division. However, with her move to the UFC, Harrison has tested cutting weight and has been pleased with the results. Her manager, Ali Abdelaziz, expressed gratitude to the PFL for their support while looking forward to the new chapter in Kayla’s career.
Holly Holm’s Final Push
At 42 years old, Holly Holm is determined to make one last run at a UFC championship. Recently, she has compiled an impressive record of 4-1 in her last five appearances, with her only loss being a controversial split decision against Ketlen Vieira. Holm believes she should have won that fight. Notably, she holds victories over the UFC’s current bantamweight champion, Raquel Pennington, in 2015 and 2020. The winner of the Holm-Harrison matchup could potentially come into close contention for a title shot.
When Kayla Harrison approached the UFC as a free agent in late 2021, the circumstances were significantly different. In the past, she had expressed her reluctance to cut a significant amount of weight, limiting her options at 145 and 155 pounds. However, with the absence of a UFC promoted 155-pound division, Harrison has been compelled to explore new avenues. Training out of American Top Team in Florida, Harrison is prepared to embark on this new chapter of her career in the UFC.
The clash between Holm and Harrison promises to be a thrilling battle in the octagon. With their remarkable achievements and skill sets, this fight has captured the attention of fight fans worldwide. The winner of this highly anticipated matchup will undoubtedly make a significant impact in the women’s bantamweight division. While current champion Raquel Pennington is expected to defend her title against Julianna Peña, the outcome of the Holm-Harrison fight could potentially influence the title picture.
The signing of Kayla Harrison by the UFC and her upcoming clash with Holly Holm at UFC 300 has sparked a renewed sense of excitement in the world of women’s combat sports. Both athletes bring exceptional talent and experience to the octagon, making this a must-watch event for fight fans. The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown, and the outcome will undoubtedly have reverberations throughout the bantamweight division.
Leave a Reply