Following her victory at UFC 316 where she claimed the women`s bantamweight title, Kayla Harrison was given a warm and emotional reception upon returning to her gym, American Top Team (ATT) in Florida.
Harrison`s rapid journey to the UFC bantamweight championship culminated in a dominant performance at the UFC 316 co-main event in Newark. Late in the second round against Julianna Peña, Harrison secured a kimura submission, forcing the previous champion to tap out. This outcome was widely anticipated, as Harrison was a strong favorite entering the fight. She exceeded expectations with a career-defining performance to become a UFC world champion.
ATT is known for producing major UFC talents like Dustin Poirier, who is set to headline UFC 318. Harrison`s return to ATT after UFC 316 was met with a hero`s welcome, celebrating her status as the new champion in women`s MMA.
The gym is a bustling hub, especially with major fights approaching. Dustin Poirier is preparing for his anticipated retirement bout against Max Holloway at UFC 318, and other elite fighters are also training for significant matchups.
Harrison`s path to this achievement was extensive, including a successful career in the PFL. Her title win was celebrated by her esteemed teammates at ATT. UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja impressively lifted Harrison overhead as a welcome gesture. Dustin Poirier also shared a touching moment with Harrison, highlighting the camaraderie among the gym`s top veterans. Alexandre Pantoja himself is also preparing for his next fight, scheduled for UFC 317 against Kai Kara-France, following his previous win over Kai Asakura at UFC 310.
Looking ahead, Harrison`s potential next opponent could be a returning legend and former teammate, Amanda Nunes. The two had a face-off in the Octagon during Harrison`s post-fight interview. While there was previous tension between Harrison and Nunes following Nunes` departure from ATT after her loss at UFC 269, they appeared cordial during their recent interaction after Harrison`s victory. Nunes reportedly sent a message hinting at their history training together at ATT. As Nunes considers a return to MMA, a fight against Harrison could be a way for her to reassert her dominance.
Percy Harlow