Kayla Harrison has opened up about sparring with Amanda Nunes before even having her first MMA fight, describing the experience as “sketchy.” The two former teammates at American Top Team now stand on a collision course for what could be one of the biggest women’s fights in UFC history.
Harrison, who captured the UFC bantamweight title in June by submitting Julianna Pena, recalled meeting Nunes on her second day at a Florida gym under Mike Brown. “I sparred her and I was like, ‘Holy s—,’” Harrison said. “I hadn’t had an MMA fight yet… yeah, it was sketchy, but ok.” Despite limited time training together, the sessions left a strong impression on Harrison.
Looking ahead, Harrison hopes to face Nunes at the start of 2026, possibly before the UFC hosts an event at the White House. She stressed she isn’t thinking about retirement, saying she has “some ideas” for after that fight but is focused on training and taking things step by step.
