A Surprising Move
In a shocking turn of events, Kayla Harrison, the renowned face of the Professional Fighters League (PFL), has leaped the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). While this move has left many fans and officials perplexed, it’s PFL co-founder Donn Davis whose disappointment speaks volumes.
The Unforeseen Departure
Following Harrison’s victory over Aspen Ladd at the PFL World Championships last November, Davis believed there was still one bout left on her PFL contract. However, to his surprise, Harrison opted to join the UFC, with a bout against Holly Holm scheduled for UFC 300 on April 13. When questioned about the circumstances surrounding her departure, Davis candidly expressed his feelings.
“I don’t know,” Davis confessed during an interview on The MMA Hour. “And I talked to Kayla, and I believe Kayla and I have a very good relationship, and I don’t know [what happened]. So I can only speculate, and I don’t like to speculate about things that are about other people.”
Disappointment and Reflection
Davis’s disappointment is palpable. Unlike other promoters who often resort to criticism when fighters depart, Davis’s sentiment is one of genuine sadness. Reflecting on PFL’s history, he highlighted that the promotion had never lost a fighter in its six-year tenure. Moreover, he emphasized the caliber of matchups that were in the pipeline for Harrison within PFL, which he believed surpassed those in the UFC.
“PFL, in six years, has never lost a fighter,” Davis stated. “And ironically, PFL had never been stronger, and the matchups we had for Kayla Harrison were better than the matchups she was going to get at UFC. So I don’t know. I really can’t explain her motivations for leaving, and I was disappointed.”
Harrison’s Legacy
Harrison’s legacy within PFL is undeniable. With 16 victories under her belt, her dominance in the cage was unmatched, except for one loss to Larisa Pacheco at the PFL World Championships in November 2022. The prospect of a showdown with Cris Cyborg, especially after PFL absorbed Bellator, had fans buzzing with anticipation. However, with her departure, those dreams may remain just that—dreams.
PFL Presses Forward
Despite the setback of losing their star fighter, Davis remains optimistic about PFL’s future. He acknowledges that the promotion is in a strong position, boasting an impressive roster and robust financials. While Harrison’s absence is felt personally, Davis believes that PFL will continue to thrive, with or without her.
“That being said, because PFL has never been stronger – 80 fighters ranked in the top-25, 33 fighters ranked in the top-15 – we’re fine,” Davis affirmed. “But personally, I don’t like when any fighter leaves. So I wish she was here.”
Looking Ahead
As the MMA world braces for Harrison’s debut in the UFC, PFL continues its journey, undeterred by her departure. While the reasons behind her move remain unclear, one thing is certain—Kayla Harrison’s legacy will endure, leaving an indelible mark on both PFL and the broader landscape of mixed martial arts.
A Call for Unity
In times of transition, it’s essential for the MMA community to come together. While Harrison’s move may have caused ripples, it’s vital to remember the values that unite us—a shared passion for the sport and respect for its athletes. Regardless of affiliations, let’s rally behind the fighters as they embark on new chapters in their careers.
Final Thoughts
The departure of Kayla Harrison from PFL marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter. While Davis and the PFL team may be disappointed, they remain steadfast in their commitment to the promotion’s growth and success. As the MMA landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains certain—its ability to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide.
