Harrison On Rousey Fight: 'Could Be Fun. Free Money'

Kayla Harrison dismissed a potential fight with Ronda Rousey as easy money after successfully defending her UFC women's bantamweight title against Amanda Nunes at UFC 334.

Harrison submitted Nunes with a rear-naked choke in the fourth round Saturday night, according to BJ Penn.com. When asked about facing Rousey during the post-fight press conference, the champion brushed off the notion as little more than a quick payday. "If Ronda wants to come get some," Harrison said. "Could be fun. Free money."

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Rousey's Brief Return Makes Harrison Bout Unlikely

Rousey competed once this year under Most Valuable Promotions, finishing Gina Carano via armbar in 17 seconds back in May. The former UFC champion spent much of that fight's buildup criticising the promotion's business practices and calling out chief business officer Hunter Campbell, though she maintained her relationship with Dana White remains intact.

The prospect of Rousey returning to face an elite competitor like Harrison appears remote. Rousey last fought an active world-class opponent in late 2016 when Nunes stopped her quickly. Harrison used her Olympic-level judo to dominate once the grappling exchanges began Saturday, weathering Nunes' early striking before imposing her ground game.

🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to UFC 334 on Ticketmaster →

Harrison said she is open to reviving the women's featherweight division and would entertain a Nunes rematch at 145 pounds. The champion also told reporters she does not care if critics believe Nunes' willingness to grapple made her job easier. Harrison's next title defence remains unscheduled.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Kayla Harrison isn’t opposed to ‘free money’ fight against Ronda Rousey after submitting Amanda Nunes