MMA Match Preview: Julianna Pena (13-5-0) vs. Kayla Harrison (18-1-0)

Fight Overview

The UFC 316 co-main event features a highly anticipated women’s bantamweight title fight between reigning champion Julianna Peña and two-time Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison. Peña reclaimed the 135-pound title after defeating Raquel Pennington in a split decision, following Amanda Nunes’ retirement. Harrison, a former PFL champion, earned her title shot after dominant wins over Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira in her first two UFC fights. This matchup presents a classic striker vs. grappler battle, with Peña’s pressure boxing and submission skills facing off against Harrison’s elite judo and ground control.

Fighter Profiles & Key Stats

Julianna Peña (13-5-0) – “The Venezuelan Vixen”

Age: 35

Height: 5’6″

Reach: 69″

Stance: Orthodox

Fighting Style: Boxing & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Recent Fights:

Win vs. Raquel Pennington (Decision) – Jan 2025

Loss vs. Amanda Nunes (Decision) – July 2023

Win vs. Amanda Nunes (Submission, Round 2) – Dec 2021

Analysis: Peña is a high-pressure striker with solid grappling defense. She shocked the world by submitting Nunes in their first fight but struggled in the rematch. Against Harrison, she will need to keep the fight standing and avoid prolonged grappling exchanges.

Kayla Harrison (18-1-0) – “The Judoka Queen”

Age: 34

Height: 5’8″

Reach: 66″

Stance: Orthodox

Fighting Style: Judo & Ground-and-Pound

Recent Fights:

Win vs. Ketlen Vieira (Decision) – March 2025

Win vs. Holly Holm (TKO, Round 2) – Jan 2025

Loss vs. Larissa Pacheco (Decision) – Nov 2022

Analysis: Harrison is a dominant grappler, averaging 5.8 takedowns per fight. Her ground control and vicious elbows make her a nightmare for strikers. If she secures early takedowns, she could overwhelm Peña with relentless pressure.

Fight Breakdown & Strategy

Striking Battle

Peña has better boxing, but Harrison’s aggressive clinch work could neutralize her.

If Peña keeps the fight standing, she has a strong chance to outpoint Harrison.

Grappling & Takedowns

Harrison dominates in takedowns, averaging 5.8 per fight.

Peña’s submission skills could be a factor if she catches Harrison in a scramble.

Cardio & Durability

Harrison has never fought past three rounds, while Peña has championship experience.

If Peña survives the early storm, she could capitalize in later rounds.

FIGHT ODDS

Julianna Pena    – 470

Kayla Harrison   – 650

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, June 6, 2025