Fight Details
Matchup: Julianna Peña (13-5-0) vs. Kayla Harrison (18-1-0)
Event: UFC 316
Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025
Venue: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
Weight Class: Women’s Bantamweight (135 lbs)
Broadcast: Pay-Per-View (ESPN+)
Fight Overview
The UFC 316 co-main event features a highly anticipated women’s bantamweight title fight between reigning champion Julianna Peña and two-time Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison. Peña reclaimed the 135-pound title after defeating Raquel Pennington in a split decision, following Amanda Nunes’ retirement. Harrison, a former PFL champion, earned her title shot after dominant wins over Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira in her first two UFC fights. This matchup presents a classic striker vs. grappler battle, with Peña’s pressure boxing and submission skills facing off against Harrison’s elite judo and ground control.
Fighter Profiles & Key Stats
Julianna Peña (13-5-0) – “The Venezuelan Vixen”
Age: 35
Height: 5’6″
Reach: 69″
Stance: Orthodox
Fighting Style: Boxing & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Recent Fights:
Win vs. Raquel Pennington (Decision) – Jan 2025
Loss vs. Amanda Nunes (Decision) – July 2023
Win vs. Amanda Nunes (Submission, Round 2) – Dec 2021
Analysis: Peña is a high-pressure striker with solid grappling defense. She shocked the world by submitting Nunes in their first fight but struggled in the rematch. Against Harrison, she will need to keep the fight standing and avoid prolonged grappling exchanges.
Kayla Harrison (18-1-0) – “The Judoka Queen”
Age: 34
Height: 5’8″
Reach: 66″
Stance: Orthodox
Fighting Style: Judo & Ground-and-Pound
Recent Fights:
Win vs. Ketlen Vieira (Decision) – March 2025
Win vs. Holly Holm (TKO, Round 2) – Jan 2025
Loss vs. Larissa Pacheco (Decision) – Nov 2022
Analysis: Harrison is a dominant grappler, averaging 5.8 takedowns per fight. Her ground control and vicious elbows make her a nightmare for strikers. If she secures early takedowns, she could overwhelm Peña with relentless pressure.
Fight Breakdown & Strategy
Striking Battle
Peña has better boxing, but Harrison’s aggressive clinch work could neutralize her.
If Peña keeps the fight standing, she has a strong chance to outpoint Harrison.
Grappling & Takedowns
Harrison dominates in takedowns, averaging 5.8 per fight.
Peña’s submission skills could be a factor if she catches Harrison in a scramble.
Cardio & Durability
Harrison has never fought past three rounds, while Peña has championship experience.
If Peña survives the early storm, she could capitalize in later rounds.
FIGHT ODDS
Julianna Pena – 470
Kayla Harrison – 650
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, June 6, 2025
