Meet Janay Harding | Professional MMA Fighter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Janay Harding and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Janay, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking has been a very pivotal part of my career as it has always been an important push out of my comfort zone and in to the next part of my journey. Whether it was selling up and moving to unknown countries or taking on tough challenges, risk taking has allowed me to grow more integrity in myself and overcoming uncomfortable situations for the reward of progession.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a professional MMA fighter which is quite a niché pathway to pursue for a female although very rewarding. I feel I got to the level I’m at today by consistently working at it and not giving up. There were many challenges to face along the way including relocating, losses, personal dramas and financial burdens but I stayed focus on the end goal and that kept me motivated to endure any uncomfortable situations. I’m most proud of the impact I’ve had on the female community and being a positive role model for others. I know I’ve inspired both men and women to either be involved in the sport or involved in exercise and it makes me proud as a Polynesian and female to represent myself in that manner.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My perfect trip to San Diego would include an oat cortado from one of the James Coffee co locations followed by a visit to a hidden beach spot in La Jolla, lunch at Duke’s and then catching the sunset at Sunset cliffs. It would definitely include visits to Dave and Buster’s or one of the two coin ops, the Marina, live music at music box or The Holding Company, plenty of taco shops and of course visiting the many great MMA and jiu jitsu gyms San Diego has including Alliance BJJ, Azteca boxing, Premiere Fight and fitness, 10th Planet San Diego and so much more.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s definitely many people that have contributed to my journey but no more than my mum. Everything I owe is to her although I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my late friend, Azuma Bennett. A Sydney native that worked and lived in California and had a massive impact on my support network in the USA. Travelling is always exciting but being from another country has it’s challenges therefore aligning with people that are like minded and from the same place makes a world of difference to a somewhat isolating feeling. I have been very fortunate to cross paths with many impacting people during my travels due to my career and for that I am always grateful.

Instagram: janayharding

Facebook: Facebook.com/janayharding

Other: https://millions.co/janay-harding-mma

Image Credits
Lucas Noonan – Bellator