UFC bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison believes the outcome of UFC 322 could shape her next title defense — possibly setting up a “superfight” at next summer’s White House event.
Harrison, who became the UFC’s only current American champion by defeating Julianna Peña in June, is preparing for a highly anticipated clash with former double champion Amanda Nunes early next year. Confident of victory, Harrison told Jorge Masvidal’s Death Row MMA podcast that she plans to “whoop” Nunes before defending her title again at the presidential celebration.
Her ideal opponent? The winner of Valentina Shevchenko vs. Zhang Weili at UFC 322. If Shevchenko retains her flyweight belt, Harrison hopes to face her in a champion-versus-champion matchup at 135 pounds.
“In a perfect world, I fight soon, then again at the White House,” Harrison said. “I’m the only American champion — I’ll be there for sure.”
Another dream option, she admitted, would have been a return fight with Ronda Rousey, but the former bantamweight icon has publicly ruled out a comeback.
“I’m not fighting at the White House,” Rousey said. “I’ve got better things to do.”
With her star rising and confidence soaring, Harrison seems poised to headline one of the most unique fight cards in UFC history — assuming she can first get past Amanda Nunes.
