MMA

Harrison On UFC Retirement: ‘It Won’t Be Much Longer’

October 12, 2026

UFC women’s Bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison has hinted at a looming retirement, signaling her storied career may soon reach its end. The 36-year-old, who has dominated both judo and mixed martial arts—including Olympic gold medals in 2012 and 2016—has faced physical challenges, undergoing four surgeries in four years, while balancing her role as a single mother and homeschooling her two children.

Harrison, who joined the UFC in 2024 after a standout PFL run (15-1 record, two tournament titles), is set to defend her title against Amanda Nunes in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 334 on November 14, 2026, at Madison Square Garden. Despite her readiness for the fight, she acknowledged the toll of her demanding lifestyle, joking about her lack of social time and hinting at a desire to step away soon.

The bout against Nunes could mark one of the final chapters in a legendary career spanning decades of elite competition across multiple sports.