Following her victory at UFC 316, the PFL issued a congratulatory statement to Kayla Harrison.
Multi-time PFL world champion Kayla Harrison concluded her impressive three-fight run in the UFC by claiming a title on Saturday at UFC 316. Employing her signature dominant style, Harrison overwhelmed Julianna Peña in their championship bout, securing a submission victory in the second round.
In a highly anticipated clash, Harrison seized her chance at a UFC world title at UFC 316. She joined the UFC last year, concluding a lengthy and successful period with the PFL.
Although Harrison`s departure from the PFL was initially contentious, both parties have since moved past the issues. With Harrison having achieved her primary objective in MMA, her former promotion quickly responded to her performance.
PFL`s Reaction to Harrison`s Dominant Title Victory at UFC 316
As Harrison`s prominence grew in the PFL, discussions frequently arose about potential dream fights against opponents like Amanda Nunes and Cris Cyborg. Many within the PFL argued that Harrison should have been recognized among the top pound-for-pound female MMA fighters, a distinction she often missed out on in rankings by outlets like ESPN.
Having been somewhat overlooked by dedicated UFC fans and analysts during her PFL tenure, Harrison`s performance now strongly positions her as one of the world`s elite pound-for-pound fighters in MMA, regardless of gender.
On the platform X, PFL co-founder Donn Davis posted a message congratulating Harrison on her UFC title victory.
“Congratulations Kayla Harrison!” Davis wrote. “With a UFC belt, you now finally receive the recognition you`ve deserved for a long time!!”
“Four years ago, I lobbied the media to acknowledge your dominance,” he added. “Perhaps NOW more media outlets will acknowledge and report on the GREAT MMA fighters who aren`t part of the UFC`s marketing apparatus.”
This message from Davis contrasts sharply with previous controversial comments he made following Harrison`s move to the UFC. At that time, Davis controversially suggested Harrison was “running” from a potential fight with Cris Cyborg, even drawing a comparison to NBA star Kevin Durant.
However, in the lead-up to UFC 316, Davis and the PFL adopted a friendlier stance towards the former star of their promotion. Relations between Harrison and the PFL are now reported to be cordial, despite an initially strained separation.
Potential Blockbuster Showdown: Harrison vs. Former Teammate Amanda Nunes
Following her dominant performance against the champion at UFC 316, Harrison is now likely to face a former teammate and friend turned potential opponent for her first title defense. Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes are anticipated to compete next year, especially after their face-off inside the Octagon post-fight at UFC 316.
Nunes retired from MMA after defeating Irene Aldana at UFC 289, but she has frequently hinted at a return to competition. Many consider her the greatest female fighter in MMA history.
The UFC`s women`s bantamweight division is still adjusting after the significant changes brought by UFC 316. While the event highlighted Harrison`s capabilities in MMA, she will need to further evolve her game to overcome the legendary Amanda Nunes.
Rupert Hartwell