Kayla Harrison has made headlines after her stunning victory at UFC 316. The new women’s bantamweight champion celebrated her win over Julianna Pena with a memorable moment, sharing her excitement about meeting high-profile figures. The night turned into an unforgettable experience for the American fighter.
Harrison described her joyful celebration.
“Dana’s wrapping the belt around my waist, and then I’m like giving Dana a kiss on his bald head, because I said I would, so I did. Then we’re walking out. He’s like ‘You got to meet the president.’ So I’m walking out and then the president of the United States is giving me a kiss on my cheek and I was like ‘Holy sh*t,’” she said at post fight press conference.
The unexpected encounter left her amazed.
The surprises continued with another legend.
“Then Mike Tyson’s right there, like I was just like ‘Am I in a movie right now?’ Like ‘what’s happening?’” Harrison shared, capturing the surreal nature of the night.
Her quick rise in the UFC added to the excitement.
Kayla Harrison is asked what it was like to win her championship in front of Trump. pic.twitter.com/hi1gWA6Adv
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) June 8, 2025
Kayla Harrison, born in 1990 in Ohio, started her career in judo. She won Olympic gold medals in 2012 and 2016, becoming the first American to achieve this feat. Her transition to mixed martial arts began with PFL, where she claimed lightweight titles in 2019 and 2021, proving her versatility.
She joined UFC in 2024, debuting with a win over Holly Holm at UFC 300. Her second fight against Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307 earned her a title shot. At UFC 316, she submitted Pena in the second round, securing the bantamweight belt in just her third UFC fight. Her background in elite competition fuels her success.
Harrison’s journey reflects resilience and skill. Her Olympic roots and MMA achievements have built a strong foundation, leading to her current championship status and the attention it brings.
Look at the complete joy on UFC Champ Kayla Harrison’s face when she meets Trump pic.twitter.com/iDBUKTk47p
— Sara Rose 🇺🇸🌹 (@saras76) June 8, 2025
Harrison expressed deep gratitude for representing her country.
“Obviously, always an honor. I’m big America fan, big fan of our country, and we live in the greatest place in the world. And I’ve had the opportunity and the privilege to represent it on the biggest stage in the world, and now again tonight, representing Team USA in front of our leader is an honor, big time,” she said.
She also hinted at a possible White House visit.
“I think I might have to check his house or something. That’s what I heard,” she added, showing her excitement for what lies ahead.
As champion, Harrison’s focus now turns to defending her title and inspiring others in the sport.
