Ronda Rousey Opens Up About Her Absence from UFC Events

Former UFC champion Ronda Rousey has revealed the real reason behind her absence from UFC events since her retirement from mixed martial arts. In a recent interview with Jake Humphries on the

High Performance podcast, Rousey admitted that her fear of being booed by the audience is the primary factor that has kept her away from UFC events.

Rousey's absence from UFC events has been a topic of speculation and curiosity among fans and the media.

Many have wondered why the trailblazing fighter, who revolutionized women's MMA and played a pivotal role in bringing female fighters to the forefront of the sport, has chosen to stay away from the very organization where she achieved so much success.

Dana White, the president of the UFC, was famously skeptical about women's MMA until Rousey burst onto the scene and proved him wrong.

Rousey's dominance in the bantamweight division and her string of quick finishes against top opponents solidified her as one of the most influential fighters in the history of the sport.

However, her career took a downturn after a devastating knockout loss to Holly Holm in 2015, which led to a prolonged hiatus from competition.

During her time away from the sport, Rousey openly admitted to struggling with mental health issues, including contemplating suicide. Her comeback fight against Amanda Nunes in 2016 ended in another quick defeat, marking the end of her MMA career.

Rousey later revealed that she had been dealing with concussion issues, further adding to the challenges she faced during the latter part of her fighting career.

Despite her contributions to the sport and her induction into the UFC Hall of Fame, Rousey feels that she has been portrayed negatively by the media, leading to a perception that she is unwelcome within the MMA community.

She expressed her belief that if she were to attend a UFC event, she would be met with boos from the audience, a prospect that has deterred her from making an appearance.

Rousey's sentiments shed light on the impact of media portrayal and public perception on athletes, especially those in high-profile sports like MMA.

The scrutiny and criticism faced by athletes in the public eye can take a toll on their mental well-being and influence their decisions regarding their involvement in their respective sports post-retirement.

This is not the first time that Rousey has spoken out about feeling mistreated by the media. In her new memoir 'Our Fight', she addresses the negative portrayal she has received and the challenges she faced during her career.

The toll of being under constant scrutiny and facing backlash from both media and fans has undoubtedly shaped Rousey's perspective on her relationship with the sport and its community.

In response to Rousey's comments, former UFC and WWE commentator Jimmy Smith labeled her as a 'bully' and accused her of mistreating people during her career peak.

These contrasting viewpoints highlight the complexity of public perception and the varied experiences of individuals within the same industry.

Rousey's transition to professional wrestling in WWE has provided her with a new platform to showcase her talents and connect with a different audience.

Her success in WWE has allowed her to continue thriving in a new environment where she feels appreciated and supported, contrasting with her perceived reception within the MMA community.

As Rousey continues to navigate life beyond MMA, her story serves as a reminder of the challenges that athletes face both during their careers and in their transition to post-retirement life.

The impact of media portrayal and public perception on athletes' mental well-being cannot be overlooked, and Rousey's candid revelations offer valuable insights into this aspect of professional sports.

While Rousey's absence from UFC events may be disappointing to some fans who wish to see her return to the organization where she made history, her decision reflects the personal struggles and challenges she has faced.

As she continues to carve out a new path in her post-fighting career, Rousey's legacy as a pioneering figure in women's MMA remains indelible, regardless of her presence at UFC events.

In sharing her experiences and speaking openly about her fears and struggles, Ronda Rousey provides a compelling narrative that transcends sports and resonates with individuals navigating their own journeys through adversity and public scrutiny.

Her resilience and willingness to address difficult topics serve as a testament to her strength as an athlete and as a person.

As Rousey's story continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in the world of professional sports and the lasting impact of an athlete's legacy beyond their competitive years.

While her absence from UFC events may persist, Rousey's influence on the sport and her ongoing journey will undoubtedly continue to captivate audiences and inspire future generations of athletes.

In conclusion, Ronda Rousey's revelation about her fear of being booed as the reason for her absence from UFC events offers a poignant reflection on the challenges faced by athletes in managing public perception and mental well-being.

Her candidness provides valuable insights into the impact of media portrayal on athletes and highlights the complexities inherent in navigating life beyond a successful fighting career.

As Rousey continues to chart her path post-retirement, her legacy as a trailblazer in women's MMA remains undiminished, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and inspiring others to confront their own adversities with resilience and grace.