Kayla Harrison Contemplates Clash with ‘Twerker’ Ailin Perez Before Championship Quest
Kayla Harrison is poised for a UFC title contention, yet she remains open to potential detours along her journey if the situation arises.
Such a scenario may indeed be on the horizon for Harrison, the distinguished two-time PFL champion, who recently marked a triumphant entry into the octagon this past April at UFC 300, securing a commanding victory over Holly Holm. Harrison’s accolades, which include PFL titles and Olympic judo gold, have already ignited fan anticipation, positioning her at the forefront of the bantamweight division, with champion Raquel Pennington anticipated to clash with Julianna Peña before the year concludes.
Ailin Perez, boasting a 3-0 record in the UFC’s 135-pound category, has recently issued a challenge to Harrison for a No. 1 contender bout. Despite Harrison not necessarily needing to heed this call, she may very well entertain the idea.
“I’ve been apprised of that as well,” Harrison conveyed to the media prior to Thursday’s 2024 UFC Hall of Fame ceremony in Las Vegas. “The twerker and a judo practitioner. Frankly, I’d be prepared to face both on the same evening, so it’s perfectly acceptable. I’m open to any opponent. I’m not in the habit of declining challenges.”
“Occasionally, it’s just rather absurd; I’m at a loss for words,” Harrison continued. “You’re twerking, and I—I’m unsure how to approach this. Yes, I will engage in a fight with you.”
The bantamweight division’s pinnacle is currently in a state of flux, with Peña awaiting a bout with Pennington, Pennington herself recuperating from an injury, and Harrison recovering from her own ailment while awaiting directives from the matchmakers.
Harrison underscored the significance of adhering to her diet regimen during this period, especially after years of competing without needing to drop below 145 pounds.
“To be candid, I underwent surgery post-fight,” Harrison disclosed. “A ligament in my hand required repair, followed by an infection, so to suggest that I became lax with my diet is an understatement. The adverse effects were pronounced. Thankfully, I’ve resumed my disciplined regimen, but the importance of this aspect of my training has become starkly evident.
“Reaching 135 pounds is no trivial feat; it demands an intense 12-week regimen of unwavering dedication and focus. This will be a recurrent necessity, necessitating a fundamental lifestyle transformation.”
Should Pennington versus Peña be slated within the next six months, Harrison expresses a desire to feature on the same card, should she compete again. Presently, she remains uncertain of the UFC’s specific plans for her.
“That decision is beyond my authority,” Harrison remarked. “Conversations need to occur with Hunter, Sean, Mick, and Dana. I trust in their strategic vision for my career. If they deem it necessary for me to dismantle another contender prior to targeting [Pennington or Peña], so be it.”