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Kayla Harrison Withdraws from UFC Title Defense Due to Surgery

1/14/2026

39 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Kayla Harrison, UFC bantamweight champion, withdraws from her title defense against Amanda Nunes at UFC 324 due to neck surgery.
The fight was scheduled for January 24, 2026, in Las Vegas.
Doctors recommended immediate surgery after Harrison consulted them in New York.
The UFC plans to reschedule the fight for later in 2026, though no specific date has been announced.
Harrison's recovery may take up to six months.

History

Historical Context

UFC 100, held on July 11, 2009, at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, marked a significant milestone for mixed martial arts, drawing over 10,000 fans and generating $5 million in ticket sales. This event showcased the sport's rising legitimacy, while Kayla Harrison's recent withdrawal from UFC 324 due to neck surgery highlights ongoing health challenges faced by fighters in this demanding arena.

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Story summary

Kayla Harrison, UFC bantamweight champion, withdraws from her title defense against Amanda Nunes at UFC 324 due to neck surgery.
The fight was scheduled for January 24, 2026, in Las Vegas.
Doctors recommended immediate surgery after Harrison consulted them in New York.
The UFC plans to reschedule the fight for later in 2026, though no specific date has been announced.
Harrison's recovery may take up to six months.

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