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Kayla Harrison may soon find herself vying for UFC interim gold, with the reigning women’s bantamweight champion Julianna Peña’s status in question. Harrison has solidified her position as a top contender in the 135-pound division, boasting victories over former champion Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira. Coupled with her dominant run in the PFL, Harrison is widely considered the next logical challenger for the division's crown.
However, doubts about Julianna Peña’s readiness to return have sparked discussions about creating an interim title. According to Harrison’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, the UFC is prepared to move forward if Peña remains unavailable.
“This is what I have been told: Julianna Peña, if she’s not ready to fight Kayla, she might have some health problems – it’s going to be an interim title,” Abdelaziz shared with MMA Junkie. “One hundred percent, this is what’s going to happen. The UFC is just not going to hold the division because someone doesn’t want to fight or is injured.”
Abdelaziz emphasized that prolonged inactivity by champions should not hinder a division's progress, suggesting interim titles as a fair solution.
“If you are out more than eight, nine months, then UFC should make an interim title. And I love that,” he added.
Peña recently revealed that the UFC has expressed interest in her facing either retired icon Amanda Nunes in a trilogy fight or taking on Harrison. While Peña prefers a bout with Nunes, she has indicated her willingness to accept the challenge of fighting Harrison if asked.
As fans await clarity on Peña’s return, Harrison’s opportunity to compete for interim gold could provide a thrilling matchup in the women’s bantamweight division. Whether against Peña or another top contender, Harrison’s rise continues to captivate the MMA community, setting the stage for an exciting showdown.
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