PFL founder Donn Davis discussed the departure of Kayla Harrison to the UFC, highlighting her dominant run in the PFL's women's lightweight division before her surprise exit following a loss to Larissa Pachedo. Davis, appearing on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, expressed uncertainty about the circumstances of Harrison's departure and chose not to speculate, contrasting his approach with Dana White's public criticism of departing UFC fighters.

The Big Picture

The departure of Kayla Harrison from the PFL to join the UFC underscores the competitive landscape and shifting dynamics within the MMA industry, with top fighters making strategic career moves.

By the Numbers
  • Harrison lost to Larissa Pachedo via unanimous decision in November 2022.
  • Harrison defeated Aspen Ladd at the championship event in November.
State of Play
  • Kayla Harrison is now preparing for her UFC debut against Holly Holm at UFC 300.
  • The anticipated matchup between Harrison and Cris Cyborg in Bellator is now unlikely to materialize.
Bottom Line

Donn Davis's response to Kayla Harrison's departure reflects a different tone from Dana White's public reactions to fighters leaving organizations, emphasizing a sense of disappointment and highlighting the evolving landscape of MMA fighter transitions.