Kaya Harrison is a winner, a UFC champion, and has a major career decision ahead after beating Nunes

Kayla Harrison emerged victorious and became a champion in her UFC debut fight against Amanda Nunes, but now faces a significant career decision. The 36-year-old Harrison, a former MMA champion at 155 pounds, battled through the grueling process of cutting weight to 135 pounds for this fight against the reigning champion. She fought for the first time in 18 months after undergoing spinal fusion surgery in January to heal a neck injury that delayed her much-anticipated bout until UFC 334 at Madison Square Garden.

Harrison, a two-time Olympic judo gold medalist, might have even suffered a broken foot during the fight. After choking out Nunes in the fourth round, Harrison secured the win, making this her first title defense at 135 pounds. Despite her numerous accolades, including a spot in the UFC Hall of Fame, Harrison acknowledges that she still has more to prove.

She plans to discuss her next steps with her team, take time with her children during the holidays, and enjoy some peace away from the gym. Harrison's journey has been marked by physical and mental abuse from a former coach, but she credits her deep faith for helping her overcome these challenges. She is now an advocate for survivors of abuse, sharing her story candidly and without shame.

Harrison and Nunes were once training partners, but their relationship became competitive as both sought to establish themselves as top female fighters in MMA. Nunes retired in 2023, citing burnout and a desire to spend more time with her family. Harrison's win marks a significant milestone in her career, solidifying her status as one of the best in the sport.