Daniel Cormier suggests an interim title plan at UFC 324 after Kayla Harrison pulls out of bout against Amanda Nunes due to injury

Daniel Cormier has shared his views on the sudden withdrawal of Kayla Harrison from her highly anticipated fight against Amanda Nunes at UFC 324. The bout was expected to be a major highlight of the event. With Harrison now sidelined due to injury, questions have quickly grown around what the UFC should do next with Nunes.

Harrison and Nunes were set to clash for the women’s bantamweight title in the co-main event on January 24 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. However, Harrison was forced out after suffering herniated discs in her neck. Following medical advice, she underwent surgery and could be out for as long as six months, putting the division’s plans on hold.

Daniel Cormier weighs options as Amanda Nunes waits for her next opportunity

Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Daniel Cormier explained that the length of Kayla Harrison’s recovery is key. He suggested that if Harrison is only out for around six months, creating an interim title may not be necessary. In his view, Amanda Nunes does not need a belt to stay relevant or valuable. Cormier believes the UFC can simply build the story around two champions meeting later, which would still look strong to fans.

Cormier also questioned whether an interim title would truly make sense given that Harrison fought recently. He pointed out that rushing to introduce another belt could complicate things rather than help. However, he did admit that if Harrison’s absence stretches beyond six months, the UFC might have no choice but to move forward with Nunes in a title fight. In that case, the ideal scenario would be Nunes winning and setting up a future clash where both fighters hold belts.

At the same time, Cormier warned about the risks involved. He stressed that the UFC cannot afford to lose the Nunes versus Harrison matchup entirely. Too many unanswered questions remain, and the fight still holds huge value for the division.

Meanwhile, a possible replacement has already stepped forward. Unified women’s featherweight boxing champion Amanda Serrano has publicly offered to face Nunes at UFC 324. Serrano said she is still in fight shape and would welcome the challenge on short notice. While best known for her boxing career, Serrano has MMA experience and owns an unbeaten professional record inside the cage.

For now, the UFC has a difficult decision to make. Whether it is an interim title fight, a late replacement, or a delay, all eyes remain on Amanda Nunes and what comes next at UFC 324.

Also Read: Is Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing bad news for boxers? Forbes honoree questions Saudi-backed shift in the sport




Get the latest WPL 2026 updates including WPL teams, full WPL 2026 schedule, and live scores for Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, UP Warriorz, Gujarat Giants, and Delhi Capitals. Also check the latest WPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.