Kayla Harrison Conquers UFC Bantamweight Championship
In a stellar fight that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Kayla Harrison demonstrated her absolute dominance over Julianna Peña, securing the UFC women’s bantamweight championship in the co-main event of UFC 316 in Newark, New Jersey. The victory came in the final seconds of the second round, marking a milestone in Harrison’s career.
Harrison’s first title defense already has a rival: the former bantamweight champion, Amanda Nunes, who announced her return from retirement on Friday. The new champion welcomed Nunes to the octagon, and both exchanged friendly words before facing off.
I feel like we knew this was going to happen. I have the belt, she has the legacy. Let’s put it on the table.
Kayla Harrison
Harrison (19-1) controlled every second of the fight, imposing constant pressure and achieving effective takedowns. After a first round where she quickly secured a takedown and Peña was penalized for illegal kicks, Harrison intensified her attack in the second round.
Peña (12-6) couldn’t advance and was constantly pursued by Harrison. Finally, Harrison secured a grip and took the fight to the ground. From half guard, Harrison landed punches and maneuvered to attempt an armbar. Although it seemed Peña would survive the second round, Harrison quickly transitioned to a Kimura, forcing the submission with only five seconds remaining.
This is for anyone who has ever felt hopeless and wanted to give up. On Thursday, I wanted to give up, but there’s a little voice that tells you not to.
Kayla Harrison
Harrison was referring to the difficult weight cut that had left her visibly emaciated on the scales Friday morning. However, she managed to make weight, which might have been the most arduous battle of the week.
Double Olympic gold medalist in judo, Harrison made her MMA debut in 2018 and won the PFL lightweight tournament in 2019 and 2021, before joining the UFC in January 2024. Her UFC debut was at UFC 300 last April, where, in the 135-pound category, she submitted former bantamweight champion Holly Holm in the second round. This victory was followed by a decision in her favor over Ketlen Vieira, securing her title opportunity.
Despite Peña achieving one of the biggest upsets in UFC history by submitting Nunes in December 2021, she couldn’t replicate a similar performance against Harrison, who was the clear favorite.
Although there was significant tension between Harrison and Peña before the fight, both embraced after the match.
We pray for each other. It’s not personal. We are here to fight. This is a business and I am grateful to Peña for bringing out a better version of me.
Kayla Harrison
