Kayla Harrison’s gearing up for a major challenge. She’s set to meet the 136-pound limit for her big promotional debut. And guess who she’s facing? None other than former champ Holly Holm at UFC 300. Talk about a showdown!
Now, Harrison’s record is impressive, sitting at 16-1. But here’s the kicker: she’s mostly fought in the lightweight division. So, there’s this big question mark hanging over her ability to drop to bantamweight. Can she still bring her A-game after such a drastic cut?
But here’s the thing. Harrison isn’t just any fighter. She’s an Olympic gold medalist in judo. Not to mention, she’s clinched the Professional Fighters League tournament not once, but twice. She’s got a point to prove. She’s never been one to cut a lot of weight in the PFL. But the UFC? That’s a whole different ball game.
Harrison had a chat with Kevin Iole and dropped a truth bomb. “There’s a misperception out there,” she says. Apparently, some folks think she walks around at 180 pounds. Nope. She’s been hovering around 165, 160 during her MMA career. Why? Because she’s not a fan of cutting weight. Doesn’t think it’s a great message for the kids.
But here’s where it gets real. Harrison’s stepping out of her comfort zone. “I don’t agree with this, but sometimes you have to show up and do things you don’t agree with in order to make your dreams come true,” she admits. Back in the PFL days, she was often the smaller fighter, less experienced, going up against opponents who were practically giants.
Now, the tables have turned. Harrison’s confident she’ll be the bigger, stronger, and faster fighter at UFC 300. Plus, she’s got the experience to back it up. Sure, the weight cut’s going to be a nightmare. But hey, nobody said it was going to be a walk in the park.
And get this—Harrison’s already done a trial weight cut to 135. Even simulated a fight to make sure she’s got this in the bag. “I wouldn’t have made the move if I didn’t think I was going to be able to do it,” she says. Her team’s got everything under control, from her heart rate to her blood sugar. Harrison’s not just ready; she’s confident.
UFC 300? It’s happening April 13 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. And it’s not just about Harrison and Holm. We’re talking a strawweight title fight between Weili Zhang and Xiaonan Yan. Plus, a lightweight clash for the BMF title with Justin Gaethje facing off against Max Holloway. This event’s packed with action. Can’t wait!