Kayla Harrison Isn’t Buying the Ronda Rousey Armbar Hype Ahead of Hypothetical Dream Fight

The UFC is full of what-if fights. Anderson Silva vs. Georges St-Pierre and Fedor Emelianenko vs. Brock Lesnar are two that fans wanted for years and will probably never get to see. The women's division has one of its own: a prime Ronda Rousey against Kayla Harrison. Fans still wonder how that one would have played out. Now the bantamweight champion has given her take. She paid respect to Rousey but brushed off her most iconic move.

Kayla Harrison Shuts Down Ronda Rousey Armbar Talk

Harrison was recently on the UFC Paramount show, where Jorge Masvidal asked whether she ever wanted to fight Rousey. Harrison turned the question around and asked how they thought it would go. Chris Weidman was quick to answer, stating that the former Olympic medalist had a lethal armbar, which Harrison didn’t buy.

Harrison stated, “We learned the armbar at the same gym together. You think she is going to armbar me? Don't be disrespectful now...She paved the way I’m standing on her shoulders. And for that I’m grateful.”

For those who don't know, she used armbars to win her first eight fights, with the majority of these victories occurring in the first round. Notably, on May 16, 2026, she made her comeback after nearly ten years, defeating Gina Carano via first-round armbar submission in 17 seconds.

Harrison made it clear she has nothing but respect for Rousey. She said Rousey paved the way for her and that she is standing on her shoulders, and she is grateful for that. However, when it comes to fighting, she doesn’t see ‘Rowdy’ as a threat.

Kayla Harrison Might Retire Soon

Kayla Harrison will finally return to action against Amanda Nunes at UFC 234 in November, after recovering from neck surgery. Ahead of the fight, the women's bantamweight champion has admitted she may not have many fights left before she retires. “Not long. 100-percent until the wheels fall off, but…four surgeries in four years, the wheels are a little wobbly, boys,” Harrison said.

Harrison said she is ready for a life outside the cage. She hasn't been on a date in about five years. She is a single mom of two who homeschools her kids and trains, which leaves her no free time. Consequently, Harrison now likes to meet someone.