UFC CEO Dana White has come out in support of Kayla Harrison’s UFC debut in a new weight class! In a recent announcement, the MMA world was left stunned as White revealed that Harrison has left the PFL and signed with the UFC. He also announced that her first fight in the UFC will be on the historic UFC 300 card against the veteran, Holly Holm.
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However, fans were concerned about Harrison’s ability to make the 135 lbs. bantamweight limit for the fight due to her tenure in PFL being mainly in the 155 lbs weight class. But in a recent statement, White stated that he is not concerned about a weight miss from the fighter as he revealed the details behind her preparation for her UFC debut!
Dana White eases fans’ concerns about Kayla Harrison
Kayla Harrison is known for her incredible physique and her accomplishments in Judo. The American has won 2 gold medals in Judo at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics. She is also a former training partner of Ronda Rousey. Harrison made her MMA debut for the PFL (Professional Fighters League) in 2018.
Her physique has also been a source of controversy as fans have previously leveled accusations of PED use against the MMA star on social media. However, Harrison responded to the comments in an interview with Ariel Helwani, by stating, “I’ve been getting drug tested by USADA since I was 13 years old… I developed these muscles over years of training.”
As such, in an update provided by Aaron Bronsteter, UFC CEO Dana White revealed that he is not concerned about Harrison making weight for her UFC 300 debut. According to the report, “On IG Live, Dana White says that Kayla Harrison has done multiple test weight cuts to 135 pounds and he has no concerns about her being able to make weight.”
On IG Live, Dana White says that Kayla Harrison has done multiple test weight cuts to 135 pounds and he has no concerns about her being able to make weight.
— Aaron Bronsteter (@aaronbronsteter) January 25, 2024
As the MMA community awaits Harrison’s entrance into the UFC’s bantamweight division, the assurance from Dana White regarding her weight management adds a positive outlook to the unfolding narrative surrounding her highly anticipated debut at UFC 300!
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And with her UFC move confirmed, PFL CEO Peter Murray, recently also shared his thoughts on the situation and provided insight on the change in promotions for the fighter!
Harrison receives support from PFL CEO for UFC move
PFL CEO Peter Murray, while extending well wishes to Harrison, emphasized the historic significance of her inclusion in UFC’s roster. Murray acknowledged the talent level in PFL and expressed support for Harrison’s decision to move on in a recent press conference.
He stated, “She’s a two-time champion with us, women’s 155, and she’s moving on to UFC. She’s going to be on a historic card, which I believe is a testament to the level and quality of talent in the PFL. We wish her well.”
However, when discussing the potential matchup with Cris Cyborg, Murray’s tone became more assertive. While initially praising Harrison, he underlined the importance of the fights that PFL was building, indicating disappointment at not securing the “biggest fight in women’s sports, in MMA.” Despite the desire to see the Harrison-Cyborg matchup, Murray affirmed the commitment to building PFL’s roster and conveyed support for Harrison’s decision.
Do you think Kayla Harrison will be able to succeed in her new weight class in the UFC? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Written by
Edited by
Joyita Das