Kayla Harrison Targeting Return in November at UFC 334
Bantamweight champion, Kayla Harrison could be set for a return at UFC 334 in November at Madison Square Garden.
UFC bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison could be set for a return to the octagon just 11 months after she suffered a devastating injury that forced her out of the title defence at UFC 324. She was diagnosed with herniated discs in her neck, which required her to have surgery and led to the postponement of her bout with Amanda Nunes.
She's been out of action since she dominated Julianna Pena at UFC 316 in July of last year.
Kayla Harrison Targeting November Return
According to American Top Team coach Anderson Franca, Harrison is targeting a return at UFC 334, which takes place on November 14 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York.
Speaking to Sherdog, Franca stated, "Her injury was very serious. She had to undergo surgery and spent several months unable to train, but she made a great recovery and, three weeks ago, returned to full training for the fight, which is expected to take place Nov. 14 in New York”.
UFC 334 - MSG
The assumption is that Harrison's return fight will see her face off against former teammate Amanda Nunes. The Brazilian retired from the sport in June 2023 after dominating the division for several years. The only blip on her record was her loss to Pena, only to dominate her in the rematch. She beat her so badly that a third fight wasn't warranted.
It's a fascinating match-up, arguably made more interesting after Harrison's pullout. Speaking on the match-up, Harrison's coach said, "Kayla is an Olympic champion driven by challenges. She wants to be known as the greatest of all time, and to achieve that she knows she has to beat Amanda, who is considered the GOAT today. So this is about more than the belt. It’s a fight for legacy, and it will be decided by the smallest details. Whoever makes fewer mistakes will leave with the title".
