In a groundbreaking announcement, UFC CEO Dana White disclosed the signing of two remarkable athletes in women’s combat sports history. Holly Holm, a former UFC and boxing champion, is slated to face off against Kayla Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo and two-time PFL champion, at UFC 300 on April 13 in Las Vegas. This highly-anticipated fight, set at 135 pounds, promises to be a momentous occasion for both fighters and fans alike.
The UFC’s agreement with Harrison (16-1) marks a significant milestone in the world of mixed martial arts. Known as the face of the PFL since her MMA debut in 2018, Harrison has had a stellar career competing predominantly at 155 pounds. However, this exclusive contract with the UFC opens up new possibilities and challenges for the 33-year-old fighter.
Harrison’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, expressed gratitude towards the PFL for their instrumental role in her development as a fighter. With this new chapter in the UFC, Harrison is prepared to take on a fresh set of opponents and showcase her skills on a global stage.
For Holm, who is 42 years old, this showdown against Harrison represents an opportunity to make one final run at the coveted UFC championship. Currently boasting a 4-1 record in her last five appearances, with her sole loss being a controversial split decision, Holm believes she is still a force to be reckoned with. Notably, she holds two victories over the UFC’s recently crowned bantamweight champion, Raquel Pennington.
A victory for either fighter would undoubtedly propel them into the championship conversation. While Pennington’s first title defense is expected to be against former champion Julianna Peña, the outcome of the bout between Holm and Harrison could potentially alter the future landscape of the division.
Conversations surrounding Harrison’s move to the UFC were different when she explored free agency in late 2021. At that time, the talented judoka expressed her reluctance to undergo significant weight cuts. However, with limited opportunities at 145 and 155 pounds in recent years, the chance to compete in the UFC outweighed her initial concerns.
Training out of American Top Team in Florida, Harrison brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new venture. As she embarks on this exciting journey, fans eagerly await how she will adapt and perform in her new weight class and against high-caliber opponents such as Holm.
The clash between Holly Holm and Kayla Harrison at UFC 300 signifies a new era in women’s combat sports. These two remarkable fighters, with their impressive accolades and fighting styles, are poised to captivate audiences worldwide. As they step into the Octagon, they not only carry the weight of their personal legacies but also the aspirations of future generations of female athletes.
This historic showdown pushes the boundaries of what is possible in women’s combat sports. It serves as a reminder that dedication, perseverance, and skill know no gender and that the UFC continues to be at the forefront of creating opportunities for women to excel in the ever-evolving realm of mixed martial arts.
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