Home / Arts and Entertainment / Rousey Slams UFC Exec Over "40-Year-Old" Remark
Rousey Slams UFC Exec Over "40-Year-Old" Remark
30 Jul
Summary
- Rousey criticized UFC executive Hunter Campbell for dismissing older fighters.
- Rousey's Netflix fight with Gina Carano drew 17 million viewers.
- The UFC's decision to pass on the fight proved to be a missed opportunity.
Ronda Rousey, a UFC Hall of Famer, has voiced strong criticism regarding UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell. Campbell had allegedly expressed uncertainty about marketing two 40-year-old fighters, a sentiment Rousey and Gina Carano faced when their one-off blockbuster fight was initially proposed to the UFC. The promotion ultimately passed on the event.
Most Valuable Promotions then brought the fight to Netflix, featuring other former UFC stars. The event, billed as MVP MMA 1, captivated an audience of 17 million viewers, a figure Rousey cited as extremely validating. She stated it was gratifying to prove Campbell wrong after his remarks.
Rousey further elaborated on her criticism, suggesting Campbell's perceived arrogance and lack of marketing acumen led to a significant missed opportunity for the UFC. She believes his actions inadvertently created a major rival for the promotion.
The event's success significantly surpassed Rousey's initial viewership goal of nine million. MVP CEO Nakisa Bidarian and Rousey have hinted at future MMA events, though no concrete plans are set. Rousey hopes future promotions prioritize making each fight a major event, a crucial element she feels is currently missing in the sport.
