Kayla Harrison has re-signed with the Professional Fighters League on a multi-year deal [4] following her tenure in the UFC.
The move marks a significant transition for one of the most decorated athletes in combat sports. Harrison's ability to maintain a top-tier competitive edge across different disciplines, from Olympic judo to professional mixed martial arts, establishes her as a rare crossover success in the sporting world.
Harrison first gained global prominence by winning two Olympic gold medals [1] in judo during the 2012 London Games and the 2016 Rio Games. She later transitioned to mixed martial arts, where she captured the UFC women’s lightweight title [2] on June 24, 2024, at UFC 316.
Despite her athletic achievements, Harrison has faced significant personal and physical hurdles. She said surviving childhood sexual abuse was a primary motivation to keep fighting and to inspire others [5].
Physical setbacks have also impacted her career trajectory. Earlier this year, Harrison said she underwent neck surgery [3]. The recovery from this procedure coincided with a period of uncertainty regarding her immediate fight plans heading into 2026 [3].
Born in Laramie, Wyoming, Harrison grew up in Parkland, Florida, and continues to train in South Florida [1]. Her return to the PFL follows a multi-year agreement announced in 2024 [4], suggesting a structured path forward for the fighter as she moves past her recent surgical recovery.
While some reports indicated her future fight plans remained unclear following her UFC exit [3], the formal re-signing with the PFL provides a definitive venue for her next professional appearances [4].
“Kayla Harrison has re-signed with the Professional Fighters League on a multi-year deal”
Harrison's return to the PFL signifies a strategic shift in the landscape of women's mixed martial arts. By moving between the UFC and PFL, she leverages her Olympic pedigree to maintain marketability and competitive relevance. Her ability to return to professional competition after major neck surgery in 2026 underscores the physical demands of the sport and the resilience required to sustain a career at the elite level.
