Kayla Harrison is gearing up for her first defense of the UFC women’s bantamweight title against former teammate Amanda Nunes at UFC 324 on January 24th, nearly three weeks away, but she may have already begun her weight cut. When the matchup was announced, many fans were surprised that it wouldn’t headline the event, with the interim lightweight title fight between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje taking the main event spot. Harrison has expressed concern about Nunes’ weight management, but fans remain worried about Harrison’s own intense weight loss journey.
Since moving to the 135-pound division and joining Premier Promotions, Harrison has faced ongoing concerns from fans about her severe weight cuts. Despite only three UFC fights at this weight, the Olympic gold medalist admitted to “bleeding out” a week before her fight at UFC 307. She revealed she had to shed over 30 pounds and began cutting weight months in advance. Recently, Harrison shared an Instagram story showing herself sweating in a sauna, sparking more fan anxiety about whether she’s already started an early and potentially harmful weight cut so close to the fight.
Fans voiced criticism and concern in the comments, questioning the sustainability and health risks of fighting at 135 pounds, with some suggesting the weight class might be untenable if fighters struggle to remain there. Others feared that the harsh weight cutting could jeopardize the athletes’ health, even as they expressed excitement for the forthcoming bout. Questions also arose about the necessity of such a dangerous weight cut, especially with Nunes being a powerful striker.
Harrison has avoided fighting any heavy hitters in the UFC so far, but Nunes’ power brings new challenges. Some fans predict a knockout outcome, given Nunes’ striking abilities. Meanwhile, Nunes has prepared for the fight by training with Larissa Pacheco, the only woman to have beaten her in MMA, who also has a history fighting Harrison in the PFL.
Fan Take: This upcoming title defense is crucial because it highlights the growing concern over weight cutting in women’s MMA. How Harrison and Nunes handle the weight and the fight could influence future decisions about women’s weight classes and fighter safety in the sport.
