Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes: UFC MSG Fight Preview

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Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes Set for High-Stakes Madison Square Garden Fight

The countdown to the Madison Square Garden card is officially underway. The UFC heads to New York on Saturday, November 14, with a major fight between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes.

Based on pedigree and caliber, this could be considered the biggest women’s fight of all time. The only factor taking some shine off that description is that Nunes has been retired. Rather than two active fighters meeting on a collision course, Nunes stepped away to focus on her family while Harrison filled the void and became champion.

Nunes is arguably the best female fighter ever, while Harrison is a formidable champion with serious credentials. Now they are going head-to-head in a fight that is as good as it gets.

The UFC has selected Jocelyn Edwards as the replacement fighter. Edwards will be paid to train and prepare to make weight in case Harrison or Nunes withdraws. That arrangement gives both fighters clarity about who they would face if their original opponent becomes unavailable, while also giving the UFC a backup plan.

The promotion did not always prepare replacement fighters for major bouts. In the past, injuries and late withdrawals could leave big cards without a clear solution. Fighters were also reluctant to accept a new opponent on only a few days’ notice after spending months preparing for a specific style.

Jon Jones highlighted that issue when he declined to face a replacement on short notice after Chael Sonnen was willing to step in. After several major fights and main events fell apart over the years, the UFC began paying replacement fighters to remain ready.

The Harrison-Nunes fight was initially expected to take place at the White House. Harrison is currently a -190 favorite, but that price appears too high. She is a two-time gold medalist with an exceptional pedigree, although mixed martial arts presents a different challenge.

Age may not be a decisive advantage for Harrison, who is 36. Nunes has also had time away to recover, refresh and focus on Harrison. With Nunes expected to be fully prepared for her return against the best, the pick is Amanda Nunes.