The early betting odds for the historic co-main occasion between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes have solidified, with the two-time Olympic gold medalist opening and holding as a transparent favorite over the returning former bantamweight champion. With the struggle scheduled for January 24, 2026, at UFC 324 in Las Vegas, sportsbooks are reflecting a powerful perception in Harrison’s momentum in opposition to the uncertainty of Nunes’s prolonged layoff.
Harrison initially opened round -155, that means a bettor would wish to wager $155 to win $100 on her. That line has since moved additional in her favour, with odds settling in a spread between -185 and -225 at most main books. Conversely, Amanda Nunes, one of many biggest fighters of all time, opened at roughly +130 (a $100 guess wins $130) and has drifted to +160 or greater, positioning her as a big underdog.
Analysing the Odds: Youth, Exercise vs. Legacy, Energy
The betting market’s leaning towards Kayla Harrison is predicated on a number of tangible components. At 34, she is the youthful, extra lively fighter, having seamlessly transitioned from PFL dominance to the UFC, the place she decisively beat former champion Julianna Peña. Her elite judo and crushing prime recreation current a singular stylistic problem.
The questions centre on Amanda Nunes. The 36-year-old “Lioness” has not fought since her retirement announcement in 2023, a layoff of over two and a half years by struggle night time. Whereas her legendary knockout energy and expertise are plain, the chances clearly consider potential ring rust in opposition to an athlete of Harrison’s calibre and the problem of returning immediately right into a struggle of this magnitude.
Market Motion and Sharp Bettor Perception
Whereas the general public cash has constantly backed the favorite, some motion suggests sharp bettors—skilled gamblers who transfer traces—see worth within the underdog. The slight drift in Nunes’s odds from +130 to +160 or extra signifies that whereas the preliminary line favoured Harrison, sufficient vital wagers have been positioned on Nunes to make her payout extra engaging.
This creates an interesting dynamic: the narrative favours the surging new power in Harrison, however the value on the confirmed, legendary champion in Nunes is tempting for these betting in opposition to the gang. It encapsulates the core query of the struggle: can expertise and energy overcome youth, measurement, and momentum?
Stakes and Stylistic Conflict at UFC 324
This bout is greater than a high-profile co-main occasion; it’s a possible passing of the torch. A win for Kayla Harrison immediately makes her the face of the ladies’s bantamweight division and a world celebrity. For Amanda Nunes, a victory can be maybe probably the most spectacular achievement in a historic profession, cementing her GOAT standing with an unforgettable comeback.
Stylistically, the struggle hinges on distance. If Nunes can maintain it standing and discover a house for her infamous proper hand, she will win. If Harrison can shut the space, utilise her judo throws, and implement her dominant grappling, she will likely be closely favoured to manage the rounds and doubtlessly discover a end.
Continuously Requested Questions
What are the most recent betting odds for Harrison vs. Nunes?As of late December, Kayla Harrison is a strong betting favorite, with odds starting from -185 to -225. Amanda Nunes is the underdog, with odds between +160 and +189, relying on the sportsbook.
Why is Kayla Harrison favoured to beat Amanda Nunes?Harrison is favoured because of her latest exercise, dominant performances, perceived bodily benefits, and the uncertainty surrounding Nunes’s return after a two-and-a-half-year layoff from competitors.
Have the betting odds modified since opening?Sure. Harrison’s odds have moved additional in her favour (from approx. -155 to -200 vary), whereas Nunes’s odds have lengthened (from +130 to +175 vary), indicating elevated confidence from the betting market in Harrison.
The place and when is the Harrison vs. Nunes struggle?The struggle is the co-main occasion of UFC 324, scheduled for January 24, 2026, on the T-Cellular Area in Las Vegas, Nevada.
What’s the greatest issue on this struggle?The first issue is whether or not Amanda Nunes can shake off the ring rust and defend Kayla Harrison‘s takedowns to utilise her elite placing. If the struggle stays standing, Nunes’s possibilities enhance dramatically. If it goes to the bottom, Harrison is a heavy favorite.
