UFC bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison has tearfully announced her withdrawal from the highly anticipated UFC 324 bout against Amanda Nunes. The acclaimed athlete underwent urgent surgery for two herniated discs in her neck, necessitating the postponement of the fight. Harrison conveyed her deep regret to Nunes and her devoted fans, expressing determination for a swift and complete recovery.
UFC Champion Kayla Harrison Undergoes Emergency Surgery, Reschedules Nunes Bout
In a somber video message posted on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from New York City, a visibly emotional Kayla Harrison, adorned in a neck brace, revealed the critical health update. She disclosed that she had undergone immediate surgical intervention with a specialist to address two herniated discs. This unexpected medical development forces Harrison, a two-time Olympic judo gold medalist, to withdraw from her upcoming bantamweight championship defense against Amanda Nunes at UFC 324, originally slated for January 24 in Las Vegas. Harrison, 34, conveyed a heartfelt apology to Nunes and her supporters, articulating her immense disappointment while affirming her commitment to a full recovery and an eventual return to the octagon. While the precise recovery timeline remains undisclosed by Harrison, media reports indicate a potential six-month hiatus from active competition. Harrison (19-1), who secured the bantamweight title in June 2025 by defeating Julianna Pena, faces a challenging road ahead. Her opponent, Amanda Nunes (23-5), a former UFC featherweight and bantamweight champion, had retired in June 2023 after successfully defending her title. The rescheduled date for their championship clash is eagerly awaited by the mixed martial arts community. Meanwhile, UFC 324's co-main event, an interim lightweight title fight, will proceed as planned between former champion Justin Gaethje (26-5) and Paddy Pimblett (23-3), with the winner temporarily holding the belt ceded by Ilia Topuria (17-0).
Kayla Harrison's resilience and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity serve as a powerful testament to her character. Her transparency and heartfelt apology underscore the profound respect she holds for her opponent and her fans. This unfortunate setback highlights the demanding physical toll professional combat sports can exact, reminding us of the immense sacrifices athletes make. Her journey back to peak performance will undoubtedly inspire many, showcasing the strength of determination and faith in overcoming unexpected challenges. We eagerly anticipate her triumphant return to the cage.