PFL CEO Peter Murray expressed disappointment over the apparent collapse of a highly anticipated bout between Cris Cyborg and Kayla Harrison. Harrison recently signed a deal with the UFC, bringing an end to her six-year stint with the PFL. This development has dashed hopes for a showdown between two of the best women’s fighters in the world.
Murray revealed his disappointment in a statement to reporters, stating, “We’re disappointed that the fight between Cyborg and Kayla did not happen. Kayla chose not to make it happen and to move on to her next chapter.” While not delving into the specifics of Harrison’s departure, Murray acknowledged the decision and emphasized the PFL’s interest in making the Cyborg vs. Harrison fight a reality.
Despite the setback, Murray indicated the promotion’s commitment to showcasing a marquee fight involving Cris Cyborg. The plan now is to arrange a matchup between Cyborg, the current Bellator women’s featherweight champion, and Larissa Pacheco, who secured the 2023 PFL featherweight title.
The potential clash between Cyborg and Harrison had generated significant interest, especially after the PFL’s acquisition of Bellator in late 2023, which made the cross-promotional bout feasible. Harrison, a two-time PFL women’s lightweight champion, had initially hinted at becoming a free agent after her bout against Aspen Ladd in November.
However, last week, PFL chairman Donn Davis had stated that Harrison still had one fight left on her contract. The situation evolved, and on Wednesday, Davis mentioned that the promotion had ultimately decided not to impede Harrison’s move to the UFC.
Harrison, with her impressive PFL career, is now set to make her UFC debut against former bantamweight champion Holly Holm at UFC 300 on April 13. Despite the disappointment of missing out on the Cyborg matchup, fans can still anticipate seeing both fighters in high-profile bouts in their respective promotions.