Former UFC champion Ronda Rousey has ignited fresh controversy ahead of her highly anticipated return to mixed martial arts. The former Olympic medalist is set to face Gina Carano on Saturday in her first fight in nearly a decade. In the lead-up to the event, Rousey responded strongly to criticism from several UFC personalities, particularly Khamzat Chimaev.
The undefeated middleweight contender had questioned Rousey's comments regarding UFC fighter pay and suggested that she should be grateful to the promotion that helped build her career and fame in combat sports. Rousey addressed those remarks during the pre-fight press conference.
While she praised Dana White and the Fertitta family for supporting her career, Rousey made it clear that her loyalty does not extend to the current UFC ownership under TKO Group. She also accused Chimaev of trying to stay relevant by mentioning her name. The former bantamweight champion added that fans are more interested in her fight with Gina Carano because of the excitement and star power surrounding the event.
Ronda Rousey Blasts Khamzat Chimaev and Responds to Kayla Harrison Criticism
Ronda Rousey did not hold back while reacting to Khamzat Chimaev's comments. She said at the media event that she still respects Dana White and the Fertitta brothers for giving her opportunities during her UFC career. However, she stated that she does not feel connected to the current UFC management after the company changed ownership. Rousey also mocked Chimaev by claiming fans are talking more about her comeback than his recent fights because people find her match more entertaining and exciting.
The former champion also addressed recent criticism from current UFC women's bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison. Harrison had dismissed the Rousey versus Carano fight and suggested that both women were chasing money instead of greatness. She argued that the matchup involved two former stars returning after long absences from the sport.
Rousey Defends the Importance of the Event
Rousey rejected those comments and defended the significance of the event. She said professional fighting is built around major money fights and believed this card could change the future of MMA. According to Rousey, the success of the event could help create better opportunities and bargaining power for fighters outside the UFC system.
The UFC Hall of Famer also spoke about the possibility of working with Netflix and MVP in future MMA and entertainment projects. Rousey claimed she has already achieved greatness in combat sports through her title reign and cultural impact. She added that her current goal is to create history again by helping grow a new platform for fighters and fans worldwide.
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