This week, MMA legend Ronda Rousey made a very surprising announcement. At 39 years old, she is returning to face Gina Carano (7–1), in a fight set to be broadcast on Netflix on May 16.
The bout is being organized by Most Valuable Promotion, notably lead by influencer Jake Paul, known in the combat sports for his fights against Anthony Joshua and Mike Tyson. It is a surprising decision for Rousey, who retired 10 years ago following her loss to another legend, Amanda Nunes.
The first major star of women’s MMA, Ronda Rousey is considered a pioneer of the women’s divisions in the UFC. For several years, UFC president Dana White openly resisted creating women’s divisions, believing this type of fight would not attract interest. Ultimately, following Rousey’s rise in Strikeforce, an organization linked to the UFC, White decided to give her a chance. At UFC 157, she began a run of six title victories, starting with a first-round armbar win over Liz Carmouche.
Ten years later, the path she paved has allowed three divisions, and many fighters, to thrive. However, when the former champion proposed this fight to Dana White, the UFC boss declined the opportunity, leaving Netflix and Jake Paul to secure the rights. A decision that may be understandable given the fighter’s importance in the organization’s history ?
Leave a Reply