Ronda Rousey has once again stirred conversation with her direct opinions. The former UFC women’s bantamweight champion recently criticized MMA fans and commented on the enduring reputation of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Rousey Questions MMA Legends and Fan Loyalty
Rousey suggested that many top fighters are quickly forgotten once they leave the spotlight. She mentioned Chuck Liddell, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, and Brock Lesnar as examples of athletes who lost fan support after their peak. According to Rousey, Khabib remains celebrated largely because he retired undefeated.
“I think the only reason why MMA fans have their lips so firmly planted at the base of Khabib’s c— is because he retired before he reached his limit,” Rousey said on Bert Kreischer’s YouTube. “If he kept fighting until he reached his limit, everybody would be like, ‘Khabib ain’t s—, he never was s—.’ “They’re like that with everybody. Name one past champion that has the kind of respect that the current champions do. It’s really sad because I think it encourages people to get out while they’re peaking…instead of passing it on to whoever’s next to take up the mantle.”
Khabib’s Manager Responds
Ali Abdelaziz, Nurmagomedov’s manager, addressed Rousey’s remarks during an interview on Submission Radio. He described her comments as jealousy and defended Khabib’s accomplishments.
“It’s jealousy. Khabib is just an icon. Ronda, when she was a champion, she was a great athlete, you know? The girls she beat, they were not athletic. But when she met Amanda [Nunes], she lost. She can’t compare herself to Khabib. She is not a GOAT. She is just unhappy. Listen, it’s very simple. If you think you’re better than Khabib, you should come back. Kayla Harrison, your old friend, I’m sure will be very happy to open the door for you and give you an a— whooping. I was very shocked to hear her talk about Khabib like that.”
Khabib retired after defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in 2020, finishing his career undefeated at 29-0. His perfect record has helped cement his status as one of MMA’s most respected fighters.
Published on November 3, 2025 at 9:08 am
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