Kayla Harrison has moved closer to her UFC comeback following her landmark victory, while Amanda Nunes has taken a key step in preparing to return to the octagon. Harrison’s recent success and the developments around Nunes highlight a possible high-stakes matchup in the near future within the UFC.
Historic UFC Victory and Rising Star Status for Kayla Harrison
At UFC 316 in June, Kayla Harrison secured her place among combat sports legends by winning the UFC championship via submission against Julianna Pena. This victory made Harrison one of the rare athletes to claim both an Olympic gold medal and a UFC title, significantly raising her profile as one of the top female fighters worldwide.
Following this achievement, Harrison faced the looming possibility of a match with Amanda Nunes, the former women’s double champion, setting the stage for a long-anticipated confrontation between two elite fighters.
Amanda Nunes Initiates Drug Testing Protocols for UFC Comeback
After Amanda Nunes’ initial retirement, speculation about her return emerged once Kayla Harrison signed with the UFC. Nunes and Harrison share a training history from their time at American Top Team, where Nunes previously had the upper hand. Since then, Nunes has made significant strides in her skills, reflecting her readiness to reenter the competition.
Indicators of Nunes’ comeback were confirmed when she registered for a drug testing session as part of UFC’s Anti-Doping program. While it remains unclear how long Nunes has been in the testing pool, this registration formalizes her intention to compete again.
During the UFC 318 ceremonial weigh-ins, Harrison disclosed she agreed to waive the usual six-month testing pool requirement for Nunes in exchange for a “small fee,” demonstrating her eagerness to fight sooner.
“I said I would waive that (need to be in the testing pool for six months) for a small fee. I’m ready to fight. Fighters fight,”
—Kayla Harrison, UFC Champion
Harrison also expressed her focus on training and determination to face Nunes, saying she was returning from supporting fellow fighter Dustin Poirier in New Orleans and preparing for battle.
Potential Timelines for the Anticipated Harrison vs. Nunes Bout
Despite Harrison’s willingness to expedite Nunes’ return, the UFC is unlikely to accelerate Nunes’ comeback timeline significantly. If Nunes has only recently registered in the testing pool, her earliest opportunity to fight again would be in January next year, adhering to regulatory protocols.
Looking ahead, a major UFC event scheduled at the White House on July 4 has attracted numerous fighters eager to participate. This high-profile card could provide an ideal platform for a marquee fight such as Harrison versus Nunes, positioning their clash among the promotion’s biggest attractions.
Upcoming Implications and the Path Forward for Both Fighters
The developments surrounding Kayla Harrison’s UFC comeback and Amanda Nunes’ return efforts mark an important chapter for women’s mixed martial arts. Harrison’s rapid ascent and willingness to negotiate terms for Nunes’ eligibility underline her ambition to unify top talent in the division.
Meanwhile, Amanda Nunes’ drug test registration signals firm intent to resume her career, setting the stage for a potentially electrifying showdown with Harrison that fans eagerly anticipate. The timing and official announcement of this matchup will significantly impact UFC’s competitive landscape in the coming year.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Kayla Harrison adopt her kids?
A. Harrison’s sister faced challenges with addiction, so their mother took care of the children at first. However, after their mother’s stroke in 2019 and their stepfather’s death in 2020, Harrison adopted Kyla, who was eight, and Emery, who was two.