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Kayla Harrison undergoes surgery to prevent nerve damage ahead of title defense

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 12, 2026, 1:22 PM

Last updated Nov 12, 2026

Kayla Harrison undergoes surgery to prevent nerve damage ahead of title defense

Summary

Kayla Harrison, set to defend her UFC women's bantamweight title against Amanda Nunes on Saturday, revealed she was near permanent nerve damage before her surgery. The procedure addressed five herniated discs in her neck sustained from years in combat sports. Harrison’s recovery was challenging, impacting her confidence after previously experiencing significant pain while training. She aims to reclaim her top form against Nunes, who is returning after retirement in 2023. The fight is highly anticipated as one of the biggest in women's MMA history.

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Status Watch

•Harrison had neck surgery for five herniated discs earlier this year.
•She will face Amanda Nunes at UFC 334 on Saturday in New York.
•Harrison's recovery involved overcoming challenges to regain confidence.
•Nunes is returning to competition after retiring in 2023.
•Harrison holds a record of 19 wins in 20 fights since her debut.

Latest Updates

1:22 PMYahoo Sports — Harrison on verge of 'permanent nerve damage' before surgery

What they're saying

"
Kayla Harrison says she was "on the verge of having permanent nerve damage" before having neck and spinal surgery at the start of the year.
— Yahoo Sports

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