Kayla Harrison, a two-time Olympic judo gold medalist turned mixed martial arts (MMA) powerhouse, is not only breaking barriers in the octagon she’s also redefining family
While many speculate about her relationship status, Kayla’s most inspiring role is as a guardian and mother to her niece and nephew.
Coupled with her recent crowning as UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion, her journey continues to captivate both sports and personal development audiences.
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Table of Contents
Kayla Harrison’s Relationship Status: Is She Married?
We delve into the intriguing details surrounding Kayla Harrison’s romantic life, addressing the burning question: Is Kayla Harrison married?1
The Untangled Web of Kayla Harrison’s Love Life
As of the latest information available, Kayla Harrison is currently unmarried. However, it’s worth noting that she was once engaged to Aaron Handy, a Judo black belt and firefighter.
This engagement was documented in a 2012 report from CNBC, shedding light on a chapter in Harrison’s life that captivated many.
The Evolution of Kayla Harrison’s Relationships
Despite the engagement to Aaron Handy, Kayla Harrison eventually decided to part ways with him.
Rumors circulated, suggesting that Harrison embarked on a new romantic journey with Anthony Rocco Martin, a fellow American Top Team pupil. Let’s unravel the story behind this transition.
Kayla Harrison’s Transition: A Closer Look
Anthony Rocco Martin, formerly known as Tony Martin, adds an interesting layer to Kayla Harrison’s romantic timeline.
A former UFC welterweight fighter with an impressive professional record of 17-6-0, Martin became a central figure in Harrison’s life post her split with Aaron Handy.
The Anthony Rocco Martin Connection
- As Kayla Harrison shifted her romantic allegiance to Anthony Rocco Martin, it marked a noteworthy change in her personal life.
- The connection between the two, both professionally and romantically, sparked curiosity among fans and enthusiasts alike.
- The question of whether Kayla Harrison is married finds its answer in the negative.
- The dynamic shifts in her romantic life, from the engagement with Aaron Handy to the connection with Anthony Rocco Martin, portray a fascinating journey of personal growth and exploration.
Guardian Of Two Adopted Kids
Kayla Harrison’s journey transcends the boundaries of the fighting arena, revealing a heartwarming narrative of love, sacrifice, and resilience.2
In November 2019, just a month before securing her title and a remarkable $1 million prize in her inaugural season, Harrison faced a personal crisis when her mother suffered a stroke.
A Noble Decision: Becoming the Guardian
In the face of adversity, Harrison found herself at a crossroads.
Despite her mother being the custodian of her young niece and nephew, the challenging road to recovery prompted Harrison to make a life-altering decision.
“I said, ‘Let me take them. I can do it,‘” Harrison shared. In moments of truth, when challenges become palpable, Harrison emerges as the unwavering pillar of support.
“When it’s do or die and it comes to that moment when sh*t gets real, who you gonna call? You call Kayla. That’s my job. That’s what I do. I rise to the occasion.”
Stepping Up: A Commitment to Excellence
For Harrison, assuming guardianship is not merely a duty; it’s a commitment to excellence.
She navigates the intricate responsibilities with determination, aiming to provide her niece and nephew with the best possible life.
“I love them so much, and I so badly want to get it right for them.
I thought I wanted to be the best (fighter) in the world so bad. Take that feeling and multiply it by a hundred thousand. That’s how I feel for these kids.”
Balancing Roles: From the Ring to Parenthood
Harrison’s remarkable journey unfolds not only in the fighting arena but also in the realm of parenthood.
Balancing the demands of a professional fighting career with the responsibilities of raising two children, she exemplifies the true essence of a modern-day guardian.
To delve deeper into Harrison’s perspective on navigating the challenges of raising two kids while pursuing a successful fighting career, watch the video above.
Her story is a testament to the indomitable spirit that transcends the boundaries of sports, showcasing the power of love and determination in the face of adversity.
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Kayla Harrison’s Parents: Jeannie Yazell & Kenny Harrison Jr.
Kayla Harrison, a name synonymous with resilience and triumph, emerges as the firstborn to her devoted parents, Jeannie Yazell and Kenny Harrison Jr., born on July 2, 1990.3
Let’s delve into the captivating narrative of her family dynamics and the influential figures who shaped her remarkable journey.
13 years ago today. ❤️never former, never past. Once an Olympian always an Olympian. 🇺🇸https://t.co/cdZgnZschI
— Kayla Harrison Official (@KaylaH) August 2, 2025
Jeannie Yazell: A Black Belt and Guiding Force
At the tender age of six, Kayla’s mother, Jeannie Yazell, introduced her to the world of martial arts, being a black belt herself.
The early exposure ignited a spark within Kayla, laying the foundation for her illustrious career. Jeannie, at the age of 53, played a pivotal role in nurturing Kayla’s passion for judo.
Kenny Harrison Jr.: A Tragic Loss and Mental Health Advocate
Tragedy struck the Harrison family when Kayla’s father, Kenny Harrison Jr., succumbed to suicide when she was only 23.
This heartbreaking incident profoundly impacted Kayla’s mental well-being and spurred her advocacy for psychological wellness.
The two-time Olympics champion transformed personal adversity into a platform to raise awareness about mental health issues.
Jeannie’s Journey: From Love to Loss
Jeannie, after the loss of her husband, found solace in the companionship of Bobby Nichols, a retired Middletown firefighter paramedic.
Their shared life took an unfortunate turn when Nichols passed away on May 19, 2020. This loss marked another chapter of resilience for Jeannie, echoing the strength that defines the Harrison family.
Triumph Amidst Adversity: Kayla’s Early Achievements
Under the guidance of coach Daniel Doyle, Kayla’s commitment to judo led her to become a two-time Olympian champion by the age of 15.
However, behind the scenes of her picture-perfect life lurked a dark secret – the abuse she endured from her coach. Jeannie, alert and protective, reported the abuse to the authorities, leading to Doyle’s ten-year prison sentence.
A Fresh Start in Boston: Kayla’s Resilience Shines
In the aftermath of the abuse revelation, Kayla Harrison relocated from her Ohio home to Boston, seeking a new beginning. She found solace and mentorship under Jimmy Pedro, emphasizing the resilience that defines her journey.
The move marked a turning point, illustrating Kayla’s unwavering determination to overcome adversity and pursue her passion for judo.
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FAQs
Q1: Is Kayla Harrison married?
A: No public records confirm she is married. Instead, she serves as guardian to her niece and nephew. 4
Q2: Does she have children?
A: While not biological, Kayla became a full-time guardian to her niece and nephew in 2019.
Q3: What are her latest MMA achievements?
A: Kayla is the reigning UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion after her dominant win at UFC 316. 5
Q4: Is a fight against Amanda Nunes confirmed?
A: Not yet—but palpable. Both fighters have shown interest and are preparing for the possibility.6
Q5: Could Ronda Rousey return to fight Kayla Harrison?
A: Rousey’s camp hinted at a comeback against Harrison—a dramatic possibility, though many insiders remain skeptical.
