Kayla Harrison Explains Decision To Sign Back With PFL

Kayla Harrison had many suitors as a free agent. But she opted to return to the PFL.

Harrison, a former Olympic gold medalist, has dominated mixed martial arts since transitioning from judo. That includes runs to multiple titles with the PFL, which returns in April with the 2022 regular season.

For Harrison, the promise of “big name fighters” to challenge her by the PFL is what made the decision easier in the end.

“I think there were a lot of contract negotiations, there were a lot of offers, many of them very lucrative,” Harrison said while appearing on ESPN’s SportsCenter earlier this week. “The PFL had the right to match any contract that I received and they stepped up in a big way. Now, I’m going to be staying with the PFL. 

“I’m excited.”

Harrison is a perfect 12-0 with 10 career finishes. She did make a one-off appearance at Invicta FC to stay busy last year. She discussed her future with Donn Davis, co-owner of the PFL, before signing.

“He made it very clear to me that the goals I have for myself, the way I want to challenge myself, is still going to be accomplished,” Harrison said. “(The PFL) is not afraid to pay big money and bring over big name fighters to come and challenge me.”

Harrison added that her goal remains the same.

“I have a goal,” she said. “It’s to be the greatest. I know I’m going to have to fight the greatest so now it’s time for me to invite them to come get a piece.”