Kayla Harrison’s recent withdrawal from UFC 324 due to a severe neck injury has sparked concern and debate within the MMA community. Scheduled to face Amanda Nunes in what would have been a marquee bout, Harrison’s injury forced the cancellation of this high-profile clash, leaving UFC 324 without an undisputed divisional title fight. Brazilian MMA star Cris Cyborg weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Harrison’s drastic drop to bantamweight may have compromised her physical resilience.
Since entering the UFC, Harrison has been prominent in rivalries with Amanda Nunes and Julianna Pena, but Cris Cyborg, a longtime critic, has continued to challenge her. Cyborg has accused Harrison of avoiding their potential matchup and recently voiced skepticism about the sustainability of Harrison’s career at 135 pounds.
On social media, Cyborg questioned Harrison’s durability at bantamweight compared to competing at 145 pounds, hinting that the weight cut could be linked to Harrison’s injury troubles.
You have to wonder if @KaylaH is more durable at 145. I can’t imagine these cuts to 135 being a sustainable career.
?Cris Cyborg, MMA Fighter
Details Surrounding Kayla Harrison’s Injury and Apology After UFC 324 Pullout
Kayla Harrison publicly addressed her withdrawal from UFC 324 in an emotional video shared on social media shortly after surgery. Appearing with a neck brace in a New York City hospital, the two-time Olympic gold medalist expressed regret to fans and her scheduled opponent, Amanda Nunes.
Harrison revealed she underwent urgent neck surgery due to the seriousness of her injury and acknowledged the fight would need to be rescheduled. While visibly upset, she thanked medical professionals and the UFC team for their prompt and thorough care during this difficult time.
This is a tough one. I had to have surgery on my neck yesterday here in New York City with a specialist.
?Kayla Harrison, UFC Bantamweight Champion
I want to thank the UFC for taking such good care of me, Dr. D and Jen and the whole team over there. I want to thank Dr. Tammy here in New York for seeing me and taking such good care of me.
?Kayla Harrison, UFC Bantamweight Champion
Impact of Harrison’s Injury on UFC 324 and the Bantamweight Division
The cancellation of the Harrison versus Nunes bout delivered a significant blow to UFC 324’s lineup, initially billed as the first event of 2026 and the start of the UFC’s new Paramount era. With the bantamweight title fight removed, fans and analysts have been left to recalibrate their expectations for the event slated for January 24.
Harrison’s absence leaves the division without a definitive champion for the foreseeable future, creating uncertainty about when and if the anticipated rematches or new contenders will arise. Meanwhile, Cyborg’s ongoing criticism adds tension to the conversation about weight cuts and fighter longevity at the highest levels of MMA competition.
As UFC and medical specialists continue to evaluate Harrison’s health, the MMA world watches closely, aware that her recovery and decisions in the coming months will have lasting implications. The health and career trajectory of a two-time Olympic gold medalist turned UFC bantamweight champion remain under intense scrutiny by fans and rivals alike.
https://twitter.com/criscyborg/status/2011501659139293643
