Kayla Harrison Parents

Kayla Harrison is a celebrated figure in combat sports, excelling in both judo and professional mixed martial arts (MMA). Beginning her judo journey at six, guided by her mother, also a black belt, she quickly rose to prominence, winning two national championships as a teenager and later earning gold at the World Judo Championships and the Olympics in 2012 and 2016. Despite facing adversity, including enduring sexual abuse from her coach, Harrison emerged as a vocal advocate, penning the book "Fighting Back" and founding the Fearless Foundation to support survivors of abuse.

Transitioning to MMA in 2018, Harrison maintained an undefeated streak until her first loss in 2021. In January 2024, it was announced she would make her UFC debut at UFC 300 against former bantamweight champion Holly Holm. At present, she holds an almost unblemished professional MMA record of 16 wins and 1 loss in 17 bouts (16-1-0).

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Kayla Harrison was born to Jeannie Yazell and Kenny Harrison Jr. in Middletown, Ohio. Her mother's black belt in judo sparked her interest in the sport, leading Kayla to begin her judo journey at the age of six.

Who is the father of Kayla Harrison?

Kenny Harrison Jr. was the father of Kayla Harrison. Eight years ago, on St. Patrick’s Day in 2014, her father tragically took his own life. The pain of this loss is etched into her memory, and she grapples with questions about her role in his decision.

In a candid revelation, Kayla shared that she had not spoken to her father for 72 long days before his suicide. This absence of communication remains one of the biggest and most heartbreaking regrets of her life.

Who is the mother of Kayla Harrison?

Jeannie Yazell was the mother of Kayla Harrison. Under the guidance of her mother and coach, Daniel Doyle, she quickly excelled, winning two national championships by the age of 15. With support from both her parents, Kayla transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2018, where she became the former Professional Fighters League lightweight champion.

However, beneath this influence lies a painful truth: during her training under coach Daniel Doyle, Kayla endured sexual abuse, courageously reporting it to another judoka who informed her mother. In 2019, tragedy struck when Jeannie suffered a stroke, leaving Kayla’s young niece and nephew without a guardian. Stepping up, Kayla adopted them, prioritizing their well-being over her demanding fighting career.