Ronda Rousey criticizes the UFC in a new press conference where she discussed the original plans for her fight with Gina Carano, her relationship with Dana White, and her concerns about the company’s direction. The comments made headlines as Ronda Rousey criticizes the UFC leadership more openly than she has in years.
During the Los Angeles media event, Rousey explained that she first spoke to Dana White about the Carano fight because of her long-standing respect for him. She said the bout was originally planned as the final pay‑per‑view event before the UFC’s move to Paramount in January 2026. While no exact date was confirmed, she said the target was “New Year’s.” She also revealed that the offer she received was “the best PPV structure ever.”
Rousey said the fight did not happen in the UFC because Carano was not ready, something she described as “was meant to be.” She added that White was the first to know she was taking the fight to Netflix and that he supported her decision, saying “he’s always been my friend first.” According to Rousey, White wanted her to secure the best financial deal possible.
Her strongest comments came when she addressed the current state of the UFC. She said her recent criticism is based on the belief that White “isn’t calling the shots” anymore and is now an employee of a company focused on shareholders instead of building the best fights. She said: “They are bleeding talent because of short-term greed. They’re thinking about the next quarter. They’re thinking about the shareholders. They’re not thinking about their responsibility to be stewards of the future of the sport.”
Rousey continued with another pointed remark: “He knows the White House cards sucks. I guarantee he’s not happy with it either. He taught me through example to speak my mind.” When asked to describe White personally, she answered, “loyal to a fault.”
She then delivered one of her harshest lines about the company’s environment: “The UFC is one of the worst places to go. So many of their top athletes are leaving to find pay elsewhere. It’s why their champions like Valentina (Shevchenko) are selling pictures of their titties on OnlyFans.”
Looking ahead, Rousey said her future in fighting depends on how the Carano bout goes. She wants more time with her family and said she often asks herself, “When are you going to be impressed enough with yourself to spend more time with your family?” She described this fight as a grand finale and a chance to “rewrite her ending.”
Francis Ngannou and Philipe Lins also attended the press conference. Ngannou was asked about a possible fight with Jake Paul and said he was not interested in facing him, but rather “beating his ass.” Paul later said he wanted the fight too, which would take place in boxing if it happens.
Ronda Rousey Criticizes The UFC: “The UFC Is One of The Worst Places To Go”
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