Holly Holm ‘lost all focus’ in loss to Kayla Harrison at UFC 300; Dana White wants her to retire

Holly Holm could be in a position where she has to make an important decision about what lies ahead for her.

The ex-champion of bantamweight had a big defeat when she faced Kayla Harrison, who had won two Olympic gold medals in judo, in the UFC 300. She was brought down and strangled in the second round. This made Holm's record in the last four fights 1-2 with one contest that ended with no result. Also, both losses were from opponents submitting her.

After the unfortunate defeat, Holm utilized social media to release a statement discussing her display in the ring.

Holm expressed disappointment with her performance during the 10-week training camp. Her expectations were not met despite having excellent coaches, teammates, and sparring partners who provided incredible support throughout the training process. She takes full responsibility for her performance and does not offer any excuses.

I left for the fight and failed to stick to the plan. I didn't execute what we had worked on during training. I have to give credit to Kayla, as she outperformed me tonight.

During the beginning of the match, Holm initiated a grappling exchange with Harrison. However, this might not have been the wisest decision, as the former PFL champion likely preferred to fight on the ground. Although Holm successfully executed a reversal early on, she soon found herself trapped under Harrison and taking hits for almost five full minutes.

The circumstance deteriorated in the second round as Harrison brought Holm to the ground again. She then progressed to get behind Holm before securing the rear-naked choke, which concluded the fight.

In her statement, Holm, who is 42 years old, acknowledged that she requires some time to come to terms with this defeat and figure out what direction to take her career in next.

Holm expressed that she believes she has the potential and ability to achieve greater things than what she has achieved so far. Instead of avoiding her current situation, she prefers to reflect on it and be truthful with herself. Although it can be challenging, she understands the importance of being honest with herself. Despite feeling physically well, she admits that emotionally she is hurting and her confidence has taken a hit.

I simply want to express my gratitude to all the supporters who have continuously supported me, as well as my team, coaches, family, and friends. I greatly appreciate all of you and I promise to make a return. Sending lots of love to everyone who has been there for me.

The boss of UFC, Dana White, complimented Harrison for her first game performance as she fulfilled the anticipation as one of the most significant independent contracts in contemporary times.

Regarding Holm, White persisted in depicting her as a legendary figure in the sport, but he has the opinion that her prime is now in the past.

During the post-fight press conference for UFC 300, White expressed his desire to witness Holly's retirement from the sport.

Holm has not given a response to White's proposal to retire, as she is understandably coping with the recent defeat.

Irrespective of whether she keeps competing or not, Holm still remains one of the best female bantamweights in history, particularly following her remarkable victory over Ronda Rousey that resonated worldwide in 2015.