Dakota Ditcheva, inspired by Kayla Harrison’s success, aims to secure a world title in the PFL after dominating the 2024 season, drawing motivation from Harrison’s work ethic and achievements.
Dakota Ditcheva is on a mission to add another world title belt to her collection, right beside her teammate Kayla Harrison’s. After clinching the 2024 PFL women’s flyweight season, she’s back in action this Saturday against Sumiko Inaba at PFL Africa.
In preparation, Ditcheva watched Harrison’s dominant submission win over Julianna Peña at UFC 316. That victory, capturing UFC gold, fueled Ditcheva’s own ambitions. “Yeah, it’s crazy. I’ve actually got goosebumps when you think about it,” she shared with MMA Fighting.
Harrison’s journey through MMA is nothing short of astonishing. Olympic gold medalist to PFL champion, and now UFC titleholder in just a few fights. Ditcheva finds it absolutely mind-blowing.
Ditcheva, now 26, dominated the 2024 season, culminating in a decisive victory over Taila Santos at the PFL World Championships. She’s finished all nine of her PFL opponents, setting the stage for a major card appearance.
As her star rises, Ditcheva draws inspiration from Harrison’s relentless work ethic at American Top Team. “The weight cuts, the dedication… she’s in the gym every morning, every afternoon,” Ditcheva explained.
Having someone like Harrison around sets an unparalleled example. “That’s why we’re the best gym in the world,” Ditcheva added. With role models like Harrison, the drive to succeed is contagious.