Overview of Ronda Rousey
Ronda Jean Rousey is an American professional wrestler, actress, and former mixed martial artist and judoka, known for her groundbreaking achievements in both the UFC and WWE.
Birthday and Background
Born on February 1, 1987, in Riverside, California, Rousey faced early challenges, including speech difficulties due to being born with her umbilical cord wrapped around her neck.
Bio
Rousey’s athletic career began in judo, where she achieved significant milestones:
- Competed in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens at age 17.
- Won a bronze medal in judo at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, becoming the first American woman to earn an Olympic medal in the sport.
- Transitioned to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2011, quickly rising to prominence.
Key highlights of her MMA career include:
- First female champion in UFC history, winning the Women’s Bantamweight Championship in 2012.
- Set records for most title defenses by a female fighter (6) until surpassed in 2022.
- Inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2018.
In 2018, Rousey transitioned to professional wrestling:
- Debuted in WWE at WrestleMania 34.
- Won the Raw Women’s Championship shortly after her debut and headlined WWE’s first all-women’s pay-per-view event, Evolution.
- Became a three-time women’s world champion and an eighth Women’s Triple Crown Champion.
Career Achievements
- Notable film appearances include The Expendables 3 (2014) and Furious 7 (2015).
- Known for her signature armbar submission move in both judo and MMA.
- Continues to make appearances on the independent wrestling circuit following her departure from WWE in October 2023.
Personal Life
Rousey married UFC fighter Travis Browne in August 2017. The couple welcomed their first child, La’akea Makalapuaokalanipō (nicknamed Pō), in September 2021. They announced they are expecting their second child in August 2024.
Conclusion
Ronda Rousey has made a lasting impact on sports and entertainment through her pioneering roles as a female athlete, transforming perceptions of women in combat sports and professional wrestling while building a successful career as an actress.