Kayla Harrison signs with WSoF for multiple roles

Kayla Harrison, the first American Judoka to earn a gold medal in Judo, has signed with World Series of Fighting. Harrison, 26, told John Morgan for MMAjunkie that she will serve in multiple roles including brand ambassador, commentator, and, eventually, fighter.

I’ve been boxing and doing jiu-jitsu and all that, and the biggest thing for me, really, is that I miss competing, said Harrison. I miss fighting on the highest stages of the world, and the World Series of Fighting really gave me a great opportunity.

The hope, of course, is that she follows in the footsteps of fellow Olympic Judo medalist, friend, and former training partner Ronda Rousey, the most famous fighter in mixed martial arts history. However, Kayla Harrison is going to be next Kayla Harrison.

A lot of times people like to compare me to Ronda,” said Harrison. “I’m my own person. I make my own decisions. I’ll do it in my own time.

I’m excited for this new chapter. I’m excited to commentate. I’m excited to be a brand ambassador and help the World Series of Fighting grow their organization, as well as help me grow myself as a fighter, as a brand myself, and my foundation. So it’s all coming together, and I’m really excited to be working with such a positive and professional team.

WSoF CEO Carlos Silva reports that Harrison will make her broadcast debut at the company’s massive WSoF 34 show on December 31 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York, live on NBC.