Kayla Harrison announced her exit from the highly anticipated UFC 324 co-main event against Amanda Nunes due to a neck injury. The reigning UFC women’s bantamweight champion revealed that she had neck surgery earlier this week, casting uncertainty over the timeline for her full recovery and return to competition.
Harrison’s surgery took place in New York City under a specialist’s care, and the fight, initially set for January 24 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, has been postponed indefinitely. The event marks the start of UFC’s 2026 season.
Harrison Shares Emotional Message on Her Injury and Fight Reschedule
In a video message shared on social media shortly after the injury news broke, Harrison expressed her frustration and regret about the situation. She stated,
“This is a tough one. I had to have surgery on my neck yesterday here in New York City with a specialist,”
and added,
“Obviously we’re going to have to reschedule the fight and I just want to say I’m sorry. I’m sorry to Amanda. I was really looking forward to it.”
Background on Harrison’s Career and Rivalry with Amanda Nunes
A two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo, Harrison made history by becoming the second Olympic champion to capture a UFC title, winning the bantamweight championship at UFC 316 in June after submitting Julianna Pena. Her challenger, Amanda Nunes, is a Brazilian UFC Hall of Famer widely regarded as the greatest female fighter in UFC history. Nunes retired over two years ago but is returning to face Harrison.
Known for multiple title defenses at 135 pounds and holding a former title at 145 pounds, Nunes prepared for the comeback by training alongside Larissa Pacheco. Pacheco is notable for handing Harrison her only loss in the Professional Fighters League in 2022 through a five-round decision at 155 pounds, although Harrison had defeated her twice prior.
Current UFC Landscape and UFC 324 Card Adjustments
Since joining the UFC in 2024, Harrison has maintained an undefeated 3-0 record, beating notable fighters such as Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira. Her withdrawal reshuffled the UFC 324 fight card, elevating a men’s bantamweight bout between former champion Sean O’Malley and surging contender Song Yadong to co-main event status. The main event will feature an interim lightweight title matchup between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett.
Implications for Harrison’s Future and UFC Fans
Kayla Harrison’s neck surgery and subsequent fight postponement represent a significant hurdle ahead in her career trajectory. The unexpected delay impacts not only her path as bantamweight champion but also the eagerly awaited matchup against Amanda Nunes, which had generated considerable anticipation. With recovery timelines still uncertain, both fighters and UFC fans now await updates on when this crucial bout might be rescheduled, as Harrison aims to begin her road back to competition.
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