Kayla Harrison Family Life: Meet Her Wife, Kids, and Inspiring Journey Beyond MMA

By Ali Hammad June 07, 2025 10:27

Kayla Harrison is widely known as one of the most accomplished athletes in combat sports history. The only American to win two Olympic gold medals in judo (2012 and 2016), Harrison transitioned seamlessly into mixed martial arts, where she has built an impressive professional record of 18 wins and just 1 loss, capturing multiple Professional Fighters League (PFL) lightweight championships before making a high-profile move to the UFC in 2024. Yet beyond her athletic achievements, Harrison’s personal life and inspiring journey resonate deeply with fans and followers worldwide.

Kayla Harrison’s Personal Life: Family and Marriage

Kayla Harrison is openly married to her wife, a relationship that has been a source of strength and support throughout her demanding career. While Harrison keeps much of her private life away from the public eye, she has shared glimpses of her family life on social media, emphasizing the importance of love, stability, and balance outside the cage.

Though Harrison does not have children, she has spoken candidly about her desire to build a family and the meaningful role her wife plays in her life. This openness has made her a role model not only for aspiring athletes but also for members of the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the power of authenticity and acceptance.

From Olympic Glory to MMA Stardom

Harrison’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. She began her athletic career as a judoka, compiling a staggering 208-50 record in judo tournaments and becoming the first American to win Olympic gold in the sport not once, but twice. Her victories in London 2012 and Rio 2016 cemented her legacy as a trailblazer in American judo.

After dominating judo, Harrison transitioned to MMA in 2018, quickly establishing herself as a dominant force in the Professional Fighters League. She won the PFL Women’s Lightweight Championship twice (2019 and 2021), showcasing her lethal combination of knockout power and submission skills, with 6 wins by knockout and 7 by submission out of her 18 victories.

In 2024, Harrison signed with the UFC and made an immediate impact in the bantamweight division, defeating former world champion Holly Holm in her debut at UFC 300. Despite concerns about dropping from lightweight to bantamweight, Harrison’s disciplined approach to weight cutting and training proved successful, earning her nominations for Fan’s Choice Submission of the Year and Best Newcomer.

Inspiring Beyond the Cage

Kayla Harrison’s story extends well beyond her fighting accolades. She has been open about overcoming personal trauma and adversity, using her platform to advocate for survivors of abuse and to inspire others facing challenges. Her resilience and determination have made her a beacon of hope and empowerment.

In interviews, Harrison often credits her family, including her wife, for providing the emotional foundation necessary to pursue greatness. “Having a strong support system is everything,” she has said. “My wife has been my rock through every high and low, and together we face whatever comes next.”

Legacy and Impact

Kayla Harrison’s legacy is multifaceted: Olympic champion, MMA star, and advocate for authenticity and resilience. Her professional record 18 wins, 1 loss, with a balanced mix of knockouts, submissions, and decisions speaks to her skill and versatility. Yet it is her personal journey, her openness about her identity, and her dedication to inspiring others that truly define her.

As Harrison continues to compete at the highest level in the UFC and beyond, her story remains a testament to the power of perseverance, love, and living one’s truth. Fans eagerly watch not only her fights but also the life she builds with her wife, knowing that her journey is as inspiring outside the cage as it is inside.