November 14, 2026 | Madison Square Garden, New York, USA
Co-Main Event | Women’s Bantamweight Championship
[#1 BW | C UFC] Kayla Harrison (19-1-0) vs. [Hall of Fame] Amanda Nunes (23-5-0)
Fight Overview
In the co-main event, Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes finally meet in a highly anticipated matchup years in the making.
Since retiring in June 2023, Nunes has remained linked to a potential showdown with Harrison. The possibility became reality when Nunes entered the Octagon for a face-off with Harrison following her submission victory over Julianna Peña at UFC 316, where Harrison captured the bantamweight title. The fight was initially scheduled for UFC 324 but was postponed after Harrison was forced to withdraw and undergo surgery.
Harrison now faces her first title defense against one of the greatest female fighters in MMA history. Long regarded as one of the top competitors outside the UFC, Harrison made her promotional debut at UFC 300, submitting former champion Holly Holm before defeating Ketlen Vieira to earn her title opportunity.
For Nunes, widely considered one of the greatest female mixed martial artists of all time, this is an opportunity to further strengthen her legacy. She has defeated every former UFC bantamweight champion except Harrison. However, returning after more than three years away presents a significant challenge.
UFC 334 features a major women’s bantamweight championship matchup between reigning champion Kayla Harrison and former two-division champion Amanda Nunes.
Harrison brings elite grappling and physical strength, while Nunes relies on explosive striking, knockout power and extensive championship experience.
Kayla Harrison (19-1-0)
A two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo, Harrison has successfully translated her grappling skills into MMA. Her victories over Holly Holm, Ketlen Vieira and Julianna Peña demonstrate her ability to control opponents and dominate on the ground.
She has eight submission victories and six knockouts. In UFC competition, she averages 2.84 takedowns per 15 minutes while absorbing 1.10 significant strikes per minute.
Her main advantages are wrestling, physical strength and positional control. However, her recovery following neck surgery remains an important consideration.
Amanda Nunes (23-5-0)
The former bantamweight and featherweight champion returns after more than three years away from competition. Her last fight was a unanimous decision victory over Irene Aldana at UFC 289 in June 2023.
Nunes has 13 knockout victories and four submission wins. She averages approximately 4.55 significant strikes landed per minute and holds a three-inch reach advantage over Harrison.
Her biggest strengths are striking, knockout power and championship experience. The main concern is her extended absence from competition and potential ring rust.
Key Matchup Factors
- Wrestling: Harrison has a clear advantage in grappling and takedown control.
- Striking: Nunes has the advantage in reach, striking experience and knockout power.
- Physical Strength: Harrison could dominate if she consistently establishes top control.
- Experience: Nunes has considerably more championship experience.
- Conditioning: Harrison’s recovery and Nunes’ long layoff introduce uncertainties.
Fight Prediction
Harrison appears to have the stylistic advantage. Her wrestling, physical strength and ground control could make it difficult for Nunes to maintain a striking-based game.
Nunes’ best opportunity is to keep the fight standing, use her reach advantage and capitalize on Harrison’s takedown attempts.
Over five rounds, Harrison’s grappling and ability to control the pace should give her the edge.
Prediction: Kayla Harrison by Unanimous Decision.
Recommended Betting Picks
- Kayla Harrison to Win – Primary pick.
- Kayla Harrison by Decision – Secondary pick.
- Over 2.5 Rounds – Additional pick.
Additional Betting Analysis
Approximate available odds (early November 2026):
Betting Selection Odds
Kayla Harrison to Win 1.53
Amanda Nunes to Win 2.61
Best Bet: Kayla Harrison to Win (1.53).
Harrison is the more reliable selection due to her wrestling and physical advantages. However, a large wager on the exact method of victory is not recommended, as Nunes remains a dangerous opponent with considerable championship experience.
Odds are approximate and subject to change. This analysis is an expert prediction, not a guarantee of the outcome.
Final Verdict
- Winner: Kayla Harrison
- Method: Unanimous Decision
- Confidence: 7/10
- Primary Bet: Harrison to Win
- Alternative Bet: Harrison by Decision
Harrison’s grappling and physical strength should be decisive. Nevertheless, Nunes’ striking power and championship experience make her a dangerous opponent capable of producing an upset.
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