Read about Kayla Harrison’s inspiring journey from Olympic judo champion to her UFC debut. Overcoming personal struggles, she is ready to make her mark in the world of MMA.
| Key Points |
|---|
| Kayla Harrison, double Olympic judo champion, is set to make her UFC debut in Las Vegas. |
| She has already achieved success in MMA, winning the Professional Fighters League championship twice. |
| Harrison’s journey has been marked by personal struggles, including battles with mental health. |
| Despite the challenges, judo became her lifeline and provided her with hope. |
| Her goal has always been to become a UFC champion, and she believes the time is right for her to shine. |
| Harrison will face off against Holly Holm, a former bantamweight champion, in what is expected to be a UFC classic. |
Kayla Harrison’s Inspiring Journey
Kayla Harrison, a double Olympic judo champion, is set to make her UFC debut in Las Vegas. The American athlete has already achieved success in MMA, winning the Professional Fighters League championship twice. On Saturday, she will face off against Holly Holm at UFC 300, which will be broadcasted live on TNT Sports.
Harrison’s path to the UFC has been a long one, but she is following in the footsteps of another judo star, Ronda Rousey. In 2012, Harrison became the first American to win an Olympic gold medal in judo at the London Games. She successfully defended her title in the -78kg category at the Rio Games in 2016.
However, Harrison’s journey has not been without its challenges. She has been open about her struggles with mental health, stemming from the sexual abuse she endured as a young teenager by a former coach. Despite these hardships, judo became her lifeline, providing her with hope and a way forward.
In her own words, Harrison reflects on her darkest moments: "There were points when I was a teenager where I wanted to die, I did not want to be on this earth anymore." But now, she looks back at her life with gratitude, acknowledging the transformative power of sport.
Following her success in judo, Harrison decided to pursue a career in MMA. She views the UFC as the pinnacle of the sport, comparing it to the Olympics. Her goal has always been to become a UFC champion, and she believes that the time is right for her to shine. The road has been filled with unexpected twists and turns, but she is ready to give it her all.
The upcoming fight against Holly Holm is anticipated to be a UFC classic. Holm, a former bantamweight champion, is a formidable opponent. However, Harrison is undeterred and motivated to make her mark on the biggest stage in MMA.
In conclusion, Kayla Harrison’s journey from Olympic judo champion to her UFC debut is a testament to her resilience and determination. She has overcome personal struggles and found solace in the world of combat sports. Now, she stands on the cusp of a new chapter in her career, ready to seize the moment and shine.
