Former UFC champion turned WWE superstar Ronda Rousey has recently peeled back the curtain on a disconcerting incident that occurred during her tenure with the wrestling giant. In an interview with NewsNation, Rousey delved into an unsettling encounter that left her questioning the culture within WWE, particularly regarding the treatment of female talent.
The incident in question unfolded when Rousey alleges that fellow WWE wrestler Drew Gulak grabbed the string of her sweatpants as she passed by. Recounting the episode, Rousey expressed her shock and discomfort at the lack of reaction from those present, highlighting a concerning normalization of such behavior within the company.
“I was standing there and this guy I was barely an acquaintance with grabs the string of my sweatpants as I’m walking by…and nobody reacts as if this is abnormal,” Rousey shared, revealing her initial bewilderment at the incident. The lack of intervention from bystanders compounded Rousey’s unease, prompting her to confront Gulak directly about his actions.
Confrontation followed as Rousey approached Gulak to address the incident, emphasizing her refusal to tolerate such behavior towards herself or any other woman within the WWE environment. “I was like, if I ever hear you putting your hands on any other woman like this or doing anything to me like this ever again…we’re going to have a problem,” Rousey recalled, firm in her stance against inappropriate conduct.
The revelation of this incident casts a shadow over WWE’s internal culture, which has come under scrutiny in recent months following allegations against WWE Chairman Vince McMahon of sexual assault and sex trafficking. Rousey’s account adds another layer to the ongoing discourse surrounding workplace conduct and the treatment of female talent within the wrestling industry.
Furthermore, Rousey’s candid remarks shed light on her broader disillusionment with WWE, as evidenced by her departure from the company after SummerSlam in 2023. In her newly released book, “Our Fight,” Rousey offers scathing criticism of WWE and its personnel, expressing her reluctance to return unless significant changes are implemented to address systemic issues.
As Rousey continues to speak out against the perceived shortcomings of WWE, her testimony serves as a rallying cry for accountability and reform within the wrestling community. By sharing her experiences and confronting alleged misconduct head-on, Rousey amplifies the voices of those who seek a safer and more respectful environment for all individuals, regardless of gender, within the world of professional wrestling.
In conclusion, Ronda Rousey’s revelation underscores the importance of fostering a culture of respect and accountability within WWE and the broader wrestling industry. As wrestlers and fans alike reckon with the implications of her testimony, Rousey’s unwavering commitment to addressing misconduct and advocating for change stands as a testament to her resilience and determination to make a difference.