UFC 316 is set to be a thrilling event, with Kayla Harrison challenging Julianna Pena for the Bantamweight title in the co-main event. All eyes are on Harrison as she aims to dominate the Octagon and potentially become the new face of women's MMA.
Harrison's Strategy: Avoid a Brawl
Harrison believes Pena's only chance of winning is to turn the fight into a brawl. However, Harrison is confident in her fight IQ, coaches, and game plan. She intends to stick to her strategy, be smart, and ultimately claim the UFC championship. She emphasised that she intends to use her superior skills and planning to avoid a chaotic fight.
"Look, she’s very unorthodox," Harrison said in a recent interview. "She definitely likes to brawl. I think that that’s really her only chance, is to try and make it a brawl."
The Pressure of Being 'The Face'
With Amanda Nunes retired, the title of “the face of women’s MMA” is up for grabs. Harrison acknowledges the responsibility that comes with such a distinction and is ready to embrace it. She views it as an honor to be a role model and a champion for the sport and its fans.
"It would be an honor," Harrison told The Post. "Selfishly, I do this sport because I love it and I want to see how high I can climb. But to be a role model, to be a champion for the sport and for the fans is something that is an honor, and I take it as a responsibility. It’s one I don’t take lightly."
Concerns Over Weight Cut and Rehydration
Leading up to UFC 316, fans were shocked by Harrison's extreme weight cut to make the 135-pound limit. Her appearance at the early weigh-ins was noticeably different, raising concerns. However, her rehydration and weight gain between the weigh-ins and the ceremonial weigh-ins were even more dramatic, sparking online discussions and questions about the legality of IV drips.
Fight fans have been expressing their surprise and opinions on social media, with some questioning how she regained so much weight so quickly. The dramatic transformation has definitely added another layer of intrigue to the upcoming fight.
What to Expect at UFC 316
UFC 316 promises to be an action-packed event. Whether Harrison can execute her game plan and avoid a brawl, and whether Pena can leverage her unorthodox style, remains to be seen. The fight is a must-watch for any MMA fan, and the outcome will likely have significant implications for the future of women's MMA.
- Harrison aiming for dominance
- Pena looking to brawl
- Controversy over Harrison's weight cut and rehydration