Ronda Rousey has a plan that extends well beyond her May 16 comeback fight against Gina Carano, and it involves taking a leadership position in mixed martial arts if the Netflix event proves successful.
Speaking to TMZ, Rousey made clear she sees herself as the right person to lead Most Valuable Promotions’ expansion into MMA, and she did not hold back when comparing herself to the UFC’s current business leadership.
“I mean, I think nobody is more qualified than me. I’m definitely more qualified than Hunter f—ing Campbell.”
She framed MVP’s approach as a direct contrast to what she sees as a UFC that has lost its way.
“I think that MVP would be an incredible partner and that Nakisa and Jake Paul really believe in making sure the fighters are compensated fairly. The UFC, I think, has forgot that the fighters are the stars and that the characters are what people tune into see.”
Rousey also described the broader opportunity she believes exists in the market for a promotion willing to prioritize fighters over corporate interests.
“The sport is at a crossroads. There’s a huge opportunity here. If this event is a huge success, there’s a huge opportunity to take over the market share in MMA and show everybody what they’ve been missing.”
Rousey last competed in late 2016 when Amanda Nunes knocked her out. She plans to retire from competition after the Carano fight unless an immediate rematch is warranted. The Netflix event takes place at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood on May 16.