Ronda Rousey reveals struggle with head injuries and criticizes silence in MMA: 'I couldn't continue suffering'

North American recalls knockouts suffered and talks about early retirement due to concussions

R. Rousey has been retired from MMA since 2016. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook RondaRousey

R. Rousey has been retired from MMA since 2016. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook RondaRousey

Ronda Rousey, former UFC and WWE champion, is dedicating herself to new projects in her private life. However, the physical consequences of a career dedicated to MMA forced the athlete to retire.

Ronda revealed that her history of concussions suffered throughout her career, and even before it began, made her hang up her gloves. The fighter stated that she began suffering concussions at the age of six while practicing judo.

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“I started getting concussions regularly and several times a year from practicing judo, but I wasn’t allowed to talk about it. As a fighter, you must not show weakness. The last two fights of my career were the only defeats I had, both by knockout. It was a sign that the head trauma was affecting me,” said the former fighter.

Following her departure from MMA, Rousey explained that her long-term neurological health was a concern.

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“I reached a point where I knew I couldn’t continue suffering these head impacts and compete at the same level. This doesn’t do the sport any favors,” he concluded.

Ronda Rousey was a pioneer in MMA

Ronda Rousey was promoted from Strikeforce bantamweight champion (up to 61,2 kg) to UFC champion in 2012, the year in which women's MMA was introduced to Ultimate. The American defended the title on six occasions before suffering the first defeat of her career against Holly holmIn 2105.

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In 2016, 'Rowdy' returned to compete for the bantamweight belt, but was knocked out by Amanda nunes and said goodbye to professional MMA.

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