Kayla Harrison Staying Put, Re-Signs with PFL

“It is a privilege to announce the PFL has signed the most dominant MMA fighter in the world, Kayla Harrison, to a new multi-year agreement,” said PFL CEO Peter Murray. “I am also excited to announce the PFL is launching a new Pay-Per-View Super Fight Division where star MMA fighters will compete on a global stage against the best fighters in the sport. 

“Two-time PFL Champion, Kayla Harrison, will be fighting in the PFL’s 2022 Season starting this April on ESPN networks and will also continue to build her legacy as a main event in the PFL’s PPV Super Fight Division.”

The Olympic Gold medalist signed a new multi-year deal with the promotion after a lengthy free agency that saw the 2-time PFL champion appear at both Bellator and UFC events. Both promotions were keen on signing Harrison, though UFC talks calmed after a potential showdown with Amanda Nunes was spoiled by Julianna Pena at UFC 269.

Bellator CEO Scott Coker reportedly made a big push to sign Harrison, but the PFL retained the right to match any offer Harrison received. 

The signing likely comes as a relief to Harrison who grew increasingly frustrated as negotiations continued into the new year.

An End to the Frustration for Kayla Harrison

“I don’t really know what’s going on,” Harrison said in an interview with MMA Junkie. “I’m getting real sick of it at this point. … Whoever wants me, I’m ready to fight. I’m ready to sign on a dotted line, get a contract, get a fight booked. I’m tired of talking about it. I’d like to find either a new home, or I’d like to talk to PFL to continue to make them my home. But I’d like to get this done sooner rather than later.” 

Harrison is a two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo. After the Olympics, she transitioned to mixed martial arts, joining American Top Team in Coconut Creek, FL. Since going pro, Harrison is undefeated at 12-0 and has back-to-back PFL championships to her resume.

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