In 2012, women’s MMA received a monumental boost with the arrival of Ronda Rousey. The former Olympic judoka became the face of women’s MMA and played a pivotal role in breaking down barriers for female fighters.
Rousey’s dominance and her captivating personality quickly captured the attention of fans and media alike. She became the first women’s bantamweight champion in the UFC and defended her title six times with a series of lightning-fast armbar submissions.
The success of Rousey, along with other talented female fighters, convinced the UFC to establish a women’s division in 2013. This decision marked a significant milestone for women’s MMA, granting female fighters the opportunity to compete on the sport’s biggest stage.
With the introduction of the women’s divisions, fighters like Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Amanda Nunes, and Cris Cyborg further contributed to the growth and popularity of women’s MMA. Their technical skills, competitive spirit, and thrilling fights showcased the talent and depth of the female fighters, earning them respect and adoration from fans worldwide.