Kayla Harrison back in full training for Amanda Nunes after emergency surgery

Kayla Harrison has returned to full training after undergoing emergency cervical spine surgery nine months ago, which forced her withdrawal from a scheduled UFC 324 main event against Amanda Nunes. According to American Top Team muay thai coach Anderson Franca, Harrison made a strong recovery and resumed full training three weeks prior to her rescheduled championship bout, set for November 14 in New York.

Harrison, a two-time Olympic judo gold medalist and current UFC women's bantamweight champion, will face Nunes, the former two-division UFC champion widely regarded as the greatest women's mixed martial artist of all time. The matchup carries enormous significance beyond the title itself—both fighters are competing for legacy and recognition as the sport's all-time greatest.

Franca, who previously coached Nunes to victory over Cris Cyborg in 2018, acknowledged the unique position of now training the challenger. "We are professionals," he said, adding that the fight will be "decided by the smallest details. Whoever makes fewer mistakes will leave with the title." Franca praised Harrison's determination and drive to achieve GOAT status, noting that she understands beating Nunes is essential to that goal. The injury setback and recovery demonstrate Harrison's resilience as she prepares for the most significant challenge of her career.