As we embark on a new year, it’s time for reflections and predictions. And for predictions, it’s time for the return of the famous Zuhosky family crystal ball.
Though I’ve only had this crystal ball since 2022, my brother Jonathan and I make it a point to bring it out right before January 1 every year for this holiday tradition.
As we come to the end of New Year’s Day, join me for the first part of my crystal ball predictions for the world of MMA in 2025.
Let’s Look Into the Crystal Ball!
In this series, we’ll share six projections (three today, three later this week). Let’s not waste any time and dive right in.
Crystal Ball Projection No. 1: Kayla Harrison Wins UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship in 2025
Starting off the new year with a strong prediction – former PFL Women’s Lightweight Champion Kayla Harrison (18-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC) joined the UFC at the beginning of 2024.
Breaking: Kayla Harrison has signed with the UFC, Dana White announced. pic.twitter.com/5OpAk0mPor
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) January 24, 2024
Having found success in her UFC fights in the previous year, including a win over Ketlen Viera, Harrison is now the No. 2 contender for the women’s bantamweight title in the UFC as we enter 2025.
In an interview after her last fight, Harrison expressed disappointment in her performance and is eager to redeem herself in the upcoming year.
Crystal Ball Projection No. 2: Contender Series Sends 45 Fighters to UFC
In 2024, Dana White’s Contender Series saw 42 fighters being signed to the UFC. With the show consistently producing new talent, it’s possible that the 2025 season might break the record set in 2023 by sending 45 fighters to the UFC.
Winning in spectacular fashion is crucial for fighters on the show if they want to secure a contract with the UFC. With the show’s track record of signing promising talent, this prediction seems feasible for the upcoming season.
Crystal Ball Projection No. 3: Cage Warriors Lightweight Champion Hardwick Joins UFC
George Hardwick (13-2 MMA, 7-1 CWFC) is a veteran fighter who has held the Cage Warriors Lightweight Championship. After a successful title defense, he is likely to make the jump to the UFC within the next year.
Hardwick’s experience and skill set make him a strong candidate for a UFC contract, especially after his impressive resume in MMA.
Happy New Year!
Wishing everyone a happy new year from all of us at MMA Sucka.
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