UFC 316 witnessed a new champion in the Prudential Center as Kayla Harrison defeated Julianna Pena in the Co-Main Event.
The Ohio-born fighter went into the Octagon with a fiery rivalry against her opponent as both women exchanged heated words during the pre-fight press conference.
Harrison submitted the two-time UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion with a Kimura Lock right at the end of round two to claim her title triumph.
The two-time Olympic gold medallist becomes the sixth woman to win the 135-pound championship, as interesting competition awaits.
Ending the bad blood with the Venezuelan Vixen
A reason why this matchup was so anticipated and the build-up was so exciting was due to the sheer hostility of the two fighters.
During Harrison’s post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, the Ohio mixed martial artist settled the beef and embraced the UFC veteran.
“We prayed for each other.” Harrison said. “It’s not personal. We’re here to fight. This is a business, I love what I do.”
“I’m grateful I have a great fighter like Julianna to bring out a better version of me.”
The new UFC Queen of the Bantamweights stated that she almost quit on Thursday after struggling to make the 135-pound weight limit.
The 34-year-old had previously competed at Lightweight for PFL, where she had won two titles, so a 20-pound weight increase made it a challenge.
“On Thursday I wanted to quit, I wanted to give up,” said Harrison.
“I’m referring to 135lb – only God can get that last pound off me, I’m not strong enough. You have to go to a bad place and the only way through is to have surrender and have faith.”
The GOAT of Women’s MMA returns for the challenge
Just before the celebrations would continue outside the Octagon, Harrison spotted a familiar face, which would be too good to miss.
Amanda Nunes was watching on the ringside, witnessing the Bantamweight title bout as it seemed that she had an interest in potentially facing the winner.
The 34-year-old called out Nunes and invited her into the cage for what could set up a huge super fight in Women’s MMA.
The former UFC Bantamweight and Featherweight Champion was asked if she would make a return to the sport and challenge Harrison for the 135-pound throne by Rogan.
“Yes, definitely.” Nunes said. “I feel like we knew this is going to happen. Now, we’re going to do it.”
The Ohio fighter didn’t hold back her excitement as she responded as soon as Nunes stated that she would return.
“This is the greatest fighter of all time. For a long time I’ve said I want what she has,” said Harrison.
“I have a belt, she has a legacy, let’s put it on the table.”
When can we expect this exciting super fight?
While fans are eager for this potential matchup to materialise, it appears there will be a considerable wait.
Nunes retired from MMA after defeating Irene Aldana at UFC 289, vacating the Bantamweight Championship.
So, for her to challenge Harrison and try to reclaim the title, she must return to the UFC’s drug testing pool and undergo six months of drug tests before she can make her iconic comeback.
It’s unclear if the bout will take place at the end of 2025; however, if that’s the case, it means the anticipated battle will be a guarantee for next year.