She is the future of MMA: Kayla Harrison gives her pick for next MMA superstar

LockerRoom Team

01 Jul 2024

Kayla Harrison, a prominent contender in the UFC women's bantamweight division, has expressed great confidence in the future of her American Top Team teammate, Dakota Ditcheva. Harrison, who boasts a 17-1 MMA record and recently made her UFC debut, believes Ditcheva is poised for remarkable success in the sport.

Ditcheva, currently competing in the Professional Fighters League (PFL), remains undefeated in her MMA career, with a 7-0 record since joining the promotion. Harrison, a former two-time PFL champion, has closely observed Ditcheva’s progress and sees immense potential.

“She’s a killer,” Harrison stated during an interview with MMA Junkie on the UFC Hall of Fame red carpet. “She’s the future of MMA. I think that she’s only getting better. She’s young, hungry, disciplined, motivated, and has a good head on her shoulders. With a great team around her, the sky is the limit for her.”

Harrison, who fought exclusively under the PFL banner until her recent transition to the UFC, made a successful debut at UFC 300 with a submission win over Holly Holm. Reflecting on her career, Harrison expressed gratitude for her time in the PFL but is thrilled to now be part of the UFC.

“It’s a whole new beast, a whole new animal, and honestly, I’m really grateful,” Harrison shared. “In the past, I’ve been impatient or not completely happy with where I’m at, but that’s not the case anymore. I truly believe everything is happening at the right time and right place, and I’m excited to be part of this promotion. This feels like home to me, and this is where I will finish my career with a hell of a lot of gold.”

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As Harrison looks forward to further cementing her legacy in the UFC, she continues to support and foresee a stellar career for Ditcheva, anticipating great accomplishments from her young teammate.