Combat sports legend Ronda Rousey recently revealed the reasons behind her retirement from mixed martial arts (MMA) and professional wrestling. Find out why concussions played a significant role in her decision.
| Key Points |
|---|
| Rousey retired due to her history of concussions |
| She had kept her concussion history secret for years |
| Two knockout losses in her final fights contributed to her decision |
| Rousey was the first woman signed to UFC and achieved great success |
| Her concussion history began during her judo career |
Ronda Rousey’s Retirement
Combat sports legend Ronda Rousey recently opened up about the reasons behind her retirement from mixed martial arts (MMA) and professional wrestling. In a heartfelt Instagram video, Rousey disclosed that her decision was primarily influenced by her history of concussions, which she had kept secret for years. She expressed her thoughts while promoting her new book, ‘Our Fight.’
Rousey, who achieved a remarkable 12-2 record in the UFC, suffered two consecutive knockout losses in her final fights against Holly Holm in 2015 and Amanda Nunes in 2016. These defeats, combined with her undisclosed concussion history, ultimately led to her retirement.
The 37-year-old trailblazer became the first woman to sign with the UFC in 2012. Her initial success in the octagon propelled her to superstardom. Rousey later transitioned to WWE and other wrestling events, solidifying her status as a true pioneer in combat sports. In recognition of her contributions, she was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2018.
Reflecting on her loss to Holm, Rousey explained that there were many aspects she couldn’t openly discuss due to the potential filters between her words and the public. She attributed a significant part of her struggles to the numerous concussions she suffered during her judo career before entering MMA. Discussing her concussion history during her MMA days would have jeopardized her ability to compete further. The same concerns applied to her time in WWE.
Rousey’s revelation sheds light on the physical toll that combat sports can have on athletes, particularly in relation to head injuries. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing the long-term health and well-being of athletes in all sports disciplines.
| Key Points |
|---|
| Rousey retired due to her history of concussions |
| She had kept her concussion history secret for years |
| Two knockout losses in her final fights contributed to her decision |
| Rousey was the first woman signed to UFC and achieved great success |
| Her concussion history began during her judo career |
