Ronda Rousey Criticizes MMA Fans and Media for Abandoning Fighters
Ronda Rousey has voiced strong opinions regarding the treatment of MMA fighters by fans and media. She claims there’s a significant issue in how legends are remembered after their careers end. Rousey, a former UFC champion and Hall of Fame inductee, highlighted the stark contrast between mixed martial arts and other sports, particularly wrestling.
Rousey’s Critique of MMA Fan Culture
During a recent podcast appearance, Rousey remarked on the fickle nature of MMA fans. She stated, “MMA fans and media are the most what have you done lately for us crowd of any sport.” This statement underscores her belief that once fighters face defeat, they quickly fall from grace in the eyes of their fans.
- Rousey transitioned from the UFC to WWE, noticing a vast difference in how legends are honored.
- In professional wrestling, figures like Triple H and Shawn Michaels are celebrated long after their peak performances.
- Conversely, UFC champions receive criticism immediately after a loss.
Examples of Abandonment
Rousey provided several examples of this behavior within the MMA community. Fighters like Chuck Liddell and Anderson Silva faced harsh judgments following their defeats. She argued that their past accomplishments were quickly overshadowed by their losses.
- Chuck Liddell: Celebrated when winning, criticized after losses.
- Anderson Silva: Revered as a legend, dismissed following defeats.
- Fedor Emelianenko: Regarded as one of the greatest, but similarly treated poorly after losses.
The Case of Khabib Nurmagomedov
Rousey specifically referenced Khabib Nurmagomedov, noting how he remains in high regard among fans even after his retirement. She attributed this respect to his undefeated record. Rousey suggested that had Khabib lost, his reputation might have suffered the same fate as others.
Reflections on Legacy
Rousey’s own career was marked by a desire to retire undefeated, fearing that any losses would tarnish her achievements. She expressed the belief that departing on a high note might preserve a fighter’s legacy. This opinion is reinforced by her observations in WWE, where retiring on a loss is more common, seen as a way to pass on the legacy to the next generation of wrestlers.
- Rousey fears that fighters may withhold their retirement while on top, out of concern for their legacies.
- She believes this mentality may stifle the passing of knowledge and respect in the sport.
Understanding the Fighter’s Journey
Rousey also emphasized the lack of understanding among fans regarding the physical and mental toll of MMA. Many fans, she argues, have never fought and thus do not grasp the sport’s demands. She noted that each fight impacts a fighter, whether or not they emerge unscathed.
Overall, Rousey’s commentary highlights a crucial issue in MMA culture. It reflects her belief that both fans and media need to reconsider how they honor fighters’ legacies, especially in times of hardship.
