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Kayla Harrison’s Remarkable Celebration After UFC Championship Victory
UFC star Kayla Harrison recently described the surreal experience of celebrating her championship win with President Donald Trump. This extraordinary encounter took place outside the Octagon following her impressive victory.
Harrison shared her feelings during an interview with Lawrence Jones on the Fox & Friends program. She expressed, “I have had the honor and privilege of representing our country on the biggest stage for the sport. Although I have competed at two Olympic Games, I never had the unique opportunity to perform in front of the leader of my country. That experience was incredibly special to me as the new bantamweight champion.”
“I am very proud to be an American,” she continued. “Whenever you encounter a moment like that, you must seize the opportunity. It is crucial to make the most of it.”
Victorious Night at UFC 316
On Saturday night, Harrison faced Julianna Peña at UFC 316, where she won the championship via submission, solidifying her reputation in the sport. This victory sets the stage for a highly anticipated match against former champion Amanda Nunes, elevating Harrison’s profile in the competitive landscape of UFC.
An Unexpected Encounter with Celebrities
Following her win, Harrison stepped out of the octagon to meet with President Trump, who was present at the matches held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. During this encounter, the crowd erupted in cheers as Harrison and Trump embraced.
“The President of the United States kissed me on the cheek, and I thought, ‘holy cow,'” Harrison recalled. She also reacted with amazement at the presence of boxing legend Mike Tyson, adding, “Am I in a movie right now? What is happening?”
A Symbol of Triumph
In a moment captured on camera, Harrison draped her championship belt over Trump’s shoulder, a gesture that was met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd. This symbolized not only her personal triumph but also her connection with influential figures in the sporting world.
Faith and Gratitude
During her reflection on this significant achievement, Harrison attributed her success to her faith in God. She highlighted the challenges she faced, particularly the grueling process of cutting her weight to 135 pounds before the fight.
Harrison articulated her gratitude for the opportunities afforded to her in the United States. She contrasts her experience with what athletes in other countries face, particularly referring to a hypothetical situation where, if born in Cuba, she would have earned a meager $28 per week practicing judo. This perspective, she stated, keeps her humble and appreciative of her freedom and opportunities.
“We are tremendously blessed to be Americans and live freely in this great nation,” Harrison emphasized. “There really is no place like home, and I am grateful for the chance to pursue my dreams here.”
Reflections on Her Journey
Harrison’s narrative resonates deeply with many, not just for her accomplishments in mixed martial arts, but also for her inspiring reflections on opportunity, faith, and patriotism. Her story is emblematic of the trials and triumphs that athletes face in their careers. As she continues to compete and strive for greatness, her journey serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience and dedication in achieving one’s dreams.
This report benefitted from contributions by Fox News’ Ryan Gaydos.
