How Long Will Kayla Harrison Rule The Women’s Bantamweight Division?

How Long Will Kayla Harrison Rule The Women’s Bantamweight Division?

It has long been prophesied that Kayla Harrison will eventually be a UFC champion. In the UFC 316 co-main event, she submitted Julianna Pena to win the UFC women’s bantamweight title and accomplish her goal of becoming a world champion. Will she hold that title or will her title reign be a flash in the pan? Let’s discuss.

Amanda Nunes’ Return

Harrison has her first fight lined up. In her UFC 316 octagon interview, she faced off with Amanda Nunes. The women’s MMA GOAT is returning from retirement to take on the newly crowned champion.

It is hard to say how this fight will play out. It is impossible to know how Nunes will look as she comes out of retirement. She may look washed, but she could also be in prime form. That is something we will not learn until fight day.

Both Harrison and Nunes can win that fight. It is not fair to undersell either fighter’s ability to win.

The Weight Cut

A massive factor in Harrison’s title reign is her weight cut. It is hard to say exactly how much she weighs out of competition, but she has been open about the fact that her weight cut is brutal.

Unfortunately, it is hard to believe that Harrison can continue to make the 135-pound limit. That may be a bigger hurdle for a long title reign than winning fights. It’s a compliment to her skills, but there is no reason to pretend her body will continuously allow her to get to the weight class.

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The Verdict

Harrison’s title reign is a confusing one to predict. Her skills suggest that she could defend the belt for a few years. Although, her weight cut significantly diminishes her ability to accomplish that. It would not be a surprise to see her eventually vacate the title because she moves divisions or retires. On top of that, a poor weight cut may result in poor performance.

In the lane of competition, Harrison’s title reign will greatly depend on her first fight against Nunes. If she beats Nunes, she will be a massive favorite against anyone else who attempts to fight her for the title.

Ultimately, I have to say Harrison will have a short title reign. I am not convinced someone beats Harrison, but I think she eventually leaves the weight class because of the weight cut.

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