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Sara McMann Faces Ronda Rousey in UFC

February 2014 will see the first ever UFC title fight between two Olympic medalists. Sara McMann and Ronda Rousey will face off for the ultimate prize from the Women’s Bantamweight Championship ...
Sara McMann Faces Ronda Rousey in UFC
Written by Mike Tuttle
  • February 2014 will see the first ever UFC title fight between two Olympic medalists.

    Sara McMann and Ronda Rousey will face off for the ultimate prize from the Women’s Bantamweight Championship on February 22 in Las Vegas, headlining UFC 170.

    The announcement, though not a spur of the moment decision, was made at the post-fight press conference last night after Rousey defeated Miesha Tate at UFC 168.

    According to Yahoo Sports, Dana White, UFC president, made the announcement, surprising many. “Rousey vs. McMann, February, that’s the headliner.”

    “Dana actually approached me about this before this fight,” said Rousey. “I’m ready to get back into it. I’m still hungry.”

    Rousey is a 2008 Olympic Bronze medalist and McMann is a 2004 Olympic silver medalist. The two entered wrestling around the same time but have never competed.

    In 2012, Rousey, playfully known as “Rowdy,” became the first female fighter to sign with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. She is known for trash talking opponents and using harsh language during interviews, which she says is simply a way to generate more publicity for her sport.

    “She’s a rock star, man. She’s been killing it for us,” said White. “I love Ronda, man. I do.”

    McMann joined the UFC in February of this year and became the third female to earn a victory, defeating Sheila Gaff on April 27.

    In September of 2004, McMann was driving her Jeep with her fiancee, All-American wrestler Steven Blackford, when she ran off the road and the vehicle rolled over, ejecting Blackford. He died at the scene. McMann suffered a broken arm and minor injuries.

    In February at Mandalay Bay, the light heavyweight fight between Rashad Evans and Daniel Cormeir will remain, but will be moved to co-main event status behind Rousey and McMann.

    Image via Twitter

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