In 2011, Dana White famously dismissed women’s mixed martial arts (MMA). He said women would never fight in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Fast-forward and the UFC’s women’s divisions are thriving. White has openly admitted he was wrong.
In 2011, the UFC president ruled out women competing in the promotion, telling TMZ that he would “never” have women’s fighters in it.
He has subsequently described himself as an “idiot” for his past view. Women have been among the most popular fighters in the UFC.
With UFC 310 around the corner, Easybet takes a trip down memory lane, recalling the moments that shaped women’s impact on the UFC.
Ronda Rousey Revolution
Ronda Rousey changed everything. She was a star in Strikeforce, finishing fights in seconds.
White took notice. In 2012, he signed Rousey as the UFC’s first female fighter. The UFC created a women’s bantamweight division for her.
Rousey headlined UFC 157 in 2013. She defeated Liz Carmouche via armbar. It was the first women’s fight in UFC history. Hence, Rousey became the UFC’s first women’s champion.
The fighters that followed in Rousey’s footsteps
Rousey’s success opened doors for other women. The UFC soon added strawweight, flyweight, and featherweight divisions.
Fighters like Joanna Jędrzejczyk and Valentina Shevchenko became household names. Amanda Nunes became a double champion.
Women began being among the main attractions at pay-per-view events regularly. They drew millions of viewers, proving their star power.
These athletes inspire a new generation. Women’s UFC bouts continue to deliver exciting moments.
Dana White’s initial scepticism is now a distant memory. Women fighters have cemented their place in UFC history.
