“I walked away from millions of dollars…” Kayla Harrison reveals ‘leap of faith’ to reject tempting PFL offer for UFC move

Kayla Harrison is an athlete who needs no introduction. She is a two-time Olympic gold medalist that transitioned to MMA. So, it’s safe to say that she belongs to the top tier. The decorated fighter could have stayed put in the PFL and cashed in millions as their top star. However, she had her sights set on a new challenge – the UFC.

Kayla Harrison was present at the post-fight press conference of UFC 300. She revealed the risky nature of her transition from PFL to UFC. The Judo specialist also talked about the intense weight cut she had to endure to be able to fight at 135 pounds.

I took a leap of faith here…I walked away from millions of dollars… It’s a big risk to be here and I believe in myself and my team…And it’s paying off.

Kayla Harrison at the UFC post-fight press conference

Harrison made her debut in the UFC on the historic UFC 300 card. She went up against one of the best in the division, the woman who knocked out Ronda Rousey, Holly Holm. Harrion’s fight with Holm cemented her position as one of the best in the business. She effortlessly dominated Holm and made her tap in the second round. Holm is a decorated striker in the UFC. However, she was only able to land seven successful strikes against Harrison.

Harrison has never been one to shy away from a challenge. She’s a born competitor, and the chance to test herself against the best in the world was simply too enticing to pass up. The UFC title holds a special distinction in the combat sports circles. As such, Harrison wanted the most prestigious title in MMA to add to her already stacked accomplishments. Only time will tell if the American Judo specialist will win the UFC gold.

Kayla Harrison calls for title shot after dominant win at UFC 300

Kayla Harrison’s UFC debut was a roaring success. The former PFL star wasted no time making her mark on the promotion. She dominated the former champion Holly Holm with her relentless grappling and vicious ground-and-pound. After the bout, Harrison revealed what she wants the most.

Joe Rogan interviewed Harrison after her victory at UFC 300. She gave props to Holm for giving her the opportunity. Harrison then revealed that she was in the UFC for one thing only: the UFC belt.

I want my title next Joe. That's what I came over here for -- one thing and one thing only. So, I don’t care if it’s Raquel [Pennington] or Juliana [Pena].

Kayla Harrison via post-fight interview

The only question now is, who will be the one tasked with trying to defeat this judo juggernaut? Reigning champion Raquel Pennington and former titleholder Julianna Pena were both name-dropped by Harrison. It remains to be seen if the UFC books Pennington vs. Pena or Pennington vs. Harrison next.

In case you missed it:

• Alex Pereira savagely reveals changing minds to knockout Jamahal Hill at UFC 300
• “If I lost…” Alex Pereira wants no part of Drake’s $1.2 million winnings after betting at UFC 300

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW