Ronda Rousey Defeat: Bad For Rousey, Great For MMA

Ronda Rousey took a kick to the head last Saturday that was one for the books, as far as the sports world was concerned. After all of Ronda Rousey’s smack talk and bluster, she succumbed to Holl...
Ronda Rousey Defeat: Bad For Rousey, Great For MMA
Written by Lacy Langley

Ronda Rousey took a kick to the head last Saturday that was one for the books, as far as the sports world was concerned.

After all of Ronda Rousey’s smack talk and bluster, she succumbed to Holly Holm’s mad boxing skills much easier than she expected.

With that kick to Ronda Rousey’s face, a glowing rivalry was born. One that not only brings viewers, but one that will breathe some life into the female MMA scene.

The theory is, every great sport needs a great rivalry.

Ronda Rousey and Holly Holm were both terrific in this fight and their polar personalities added so much color before and after the match.

Ronda Rousey is one tough chick and isn’t afraid to let her enemies know what she thinks of them.

In contrast, Holly Holm is a class act and really tries to hold to that “preacher’s daughter” image.

After she astonishingly knocked out Ronda Rousey, Holly Holm was quick to come to Rousey’s defense when people began to call her on her tough talk.

In an interview with TMZ, Holly Holm said, “I don’t want any of that to happen.”

She added, “I do feel like I come from maybe a little more humble spot, but that’s just because I don’t wanna ever say, ‘I’m this good’ or ‘I’m that’ and then have something happen and look like a fool.”

But, Holm knows she wouldn’t be where she is without Ronda Rousey’s accomplishments.

Best feeling in the world. Still trying to process and take it all in. There aren't enough words to express what I am feeling. Thank you @ufc for the opportunity and most of all thank you to my team for believing in me. All the hours in the gym and all the years of dedication to help me get to this moment. This is a priceless moment and I could not have done this on my own. @mmacoachwink its been 17 years and one hell of a ride. Let's see where it goes from here! Greg Jackson and @izzystylewrestling … My transition to mma would not be possible without you. All of the coaching and teammates @jacksonwink_mma …… You are my family and love you all so much! I only hope to make you proud and be a good champion. And to all of my fans….. I would not be able to live the dream without you. Much love to you all!! Big hugs to everyone! #ANDNEW

A photo posted by Holly Holm (@_hollyholm) on

She said, “Ronda’s been a very dominant champ, and she’s taken the sport to new levels. And this fight wouldn’t have happened if she hasn’t accomplished what she’s accomplished. So I have a lot of respect for her.”

What do you think about this classic rivalry between Ronda Rousey and Holly Holm? Do you think it’s great for MMA?

Get the WebProNews newsletter delivered to your inbox

Get the free daily newsletter read by decision makers

Subscribe
Advertise with Us

Ready to get started?

Get our media kit

Advertise with Us