In a candid conversation on Steve-O’s “Wild Ride” podcast, former WWE superstar Ronda Rousey revealed the profound impact of her long-standing battle with concussions, shedding light on her decision to step away from the wrestling world indefinitely.
Rousey’s journey with concussions traces back to her formative years in Judo and MMA training, where she experienced numerous head injuries that made her increasingly vulnerable to such trauma over time. Despite the physical toll, Rousey forged ahead with her athletic pursuits, eventually rising to prominence as a dominant force in the UFC.
During her tenure in the UFC, Rousey faced the challenge of concealing her concussion symptoms from UFC president Dana White. Fearful that disclosing her condition would jeopardize her career, Rousey opted to keep her struggles hidden, maintaining a “winner’s mentality” to navigate the demands of the sport.
The former UFC champion candidly admitted that even seemingly minor strikes, such as slaps from fellow wrestlers Stephanie McMahon and Nikki Bella during WWE matches, could trigger concussions. Despite the risks to her health, Rousey chose not to disclose her condition, driven by her determination to pursue her wrestling aspirations.
When Rousey made her highly anticipated WWE debut in 2018, she continued to grapple with the repercussions of her concussion history. Aware of WWE’s complex relationship with concussions and the potential ramifications of disclosing her struggles, Rousey remained silent about her condition, fearing it would hinder her opportunities in the wrestling industry.
Now, with her wrestling career behind her, Rousey feels empowered to share her concussion experiences openly. In doing so, she hopes to raise awareness about the challenges faced by athletes in combat sports and encourage others to prioritize their health and well-being.
Despite her contributions to the wrestling world, Rousey has firmly closed the door on a potential return to WWE. Her decision is fueled by concerns about her family’s history of Alzheimer’s and dementia, underscoring the importance of prioritizing her long-term health and quality of life.
Rousey’s candid revelation provides valuable insight into the physical toll endured by athletes in high-impact sports and highlights the importance of concussion awareness and prevention measures. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life beyond the wrestling ring, Rousey’s story serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage required to confront and overcome personal challenges.
In a world where athletes often grapple with the pressure to perform at any cost, Rousey’s decision to prioritize her well-being sends a powerful message about the importance of self-care and the courage to step away from the spotlight when necessary.
