Scott Coker teases fight between Kayla Harrison and Cris Cyborg

14 May 2023

Bellator CEO Scott Coker has confirmed that reigning Bellator women’s featherweight champion, Cris Cyborg has re-signed with the promotion on a multi-fight deal. Cyborg had been in a lengthy free agency period after her most recent title defense against Arlene Blencowe in April 2022, and there was uncertainty about whether she would remain with Bellator. However, according to Coker, it only took a matter of hours for Cyborg to initiate conversations and ultimately reach a new deal with the promotion.

Coker praised Cyborg for her loyalty to Bellator, stating that they had a longstanding relationship dating back to her first fight with the promotion in 2009. He also noted that their commitment to the women’s featherweight division remains strong, with several potential opponents for Cyborg, including Sara McMann, Cat Zingano, and Leah McCourt. Coker also hinted at the possibility of a fight between Cyborg and two-time Olympic champion and two-time PFL champion Kayla Harrison, who will be a free agent next year.

“We are committed to discussing with every free agent out there, whether we’re a right fit for someone or not,” Coker said. “And if she does become a free agent, then we’ll definitely have that conversation, because that’s the business we’re in, and her and Cyborg would be an amazing fight. But right now she fights somewhere else. Let’s just see what happens.”

Harrison had signed a deal to fight for Bellator in early 2022, but ultimately had to return to PFL due to a matching clause. However, she is set to be a free agent again after the 2023 PFL season, and a fight with Cyborg has long been on her radar. Coker’s comments suggest that Bellator will be paying close attention to Harrison’s contract negotiations, and are open to discussing a potential fight between the two.

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Coker’s announcement of Cyborg’s re-signing with Bellator and the possibility of a future fight between her and Harrison has generated excitement among MMA fans.

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Both fighters have proven themselves to be dominant forces in their respective divisions, and a matchup between them would undoubtedly be a highly anticipated event.