Where did Kayla Harrison fight before UFC? This question often arises among fans who are curious about the background and experience of this talented mixed martial artist. Kayla Harrison, a former judo world champion, transitioned to MMA and joined the UFC, where she has gained significant recognition. Before her UFC debut, Harrison had an impressive record in various MMA organizations, showcasing her skills and determination in the sport.
Kayla Harrison’s journey into the world of MMA began in 2011 when she faced challenges in her judo career. Despite being a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a world champion, Harrison felt that her potential was not fully realized in judo. She decided to explore other combat sports and eventually turned her attention to MMA. Her first professional MMA fight took place in the Legacy FC promotion in 2011, where she showcased her judo skills and striking abilities.
After her successful debut, Harrison continued to fight in various MMA organizations, including Invicta FC, Strikeforce, and Bellator. Her fights in these promotions were a testament to her adaptability and skill as she faced a diverse range of opponents. Here are some of the notable organizations where Kayla Harrison fought before joining the UFC:
1. Legacy FC: Harrison made her MMA debut in Legacy FC, where she fought three times, accumulating a 3-0 record. Her performance in Legacy FC caught the attention of the MMA community, and she was soon invited to join other prestigious organizations.
2. Invicta FC: Harrison joined Invicta FC in 2012, becoming the first female judo world champion to compete in the organization. She faced tough opponents and won her first two fights in the promotion. However, her third fight ended in a controversial decision, which led to a heated debate among fans and MMA analysts.
3. Strikeforce: In 2013, Harrison was invited to compete in Strikeforce, where she faced Sarah D’Alelio. The fight was a highly anticipated match-up, and Harrison emerged as the winner, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the MMA world.
4. Bellator: Harrison also fought in Bellator, where she faced Lisa Ellis in her first Bellator fight. Although she lost the match, Harrison demonstrated her resilience and determination, which earned her a fan base and respect from her peers.
Before her UFC debut, Kayla Harrison had already proven herself as a formidable force in the MMA world. Her experiences in various organizations provided her with valuable insights and skills that she brought to the UFC. In 2014, Harrison made her UFC debut, where she continued to showcase her talent and adaptability. Her journey from judo to MMA has been nothing short of remarkable, and her success in the UFC has only added to her legacy as one of the most versatile fighters in the sport.
