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Kobe Bryant’s message from 11 years ago leaves Ronda Rousey in tears ahead of MMA return
TL;DR
Ronda Rousey is set to return to MMA on May 16, headlining a Netflix card against Gina Carano. An emotional moment arises as she reflects on a supportive message from Kobe Bryant following her 2015 defeat.
Key points
- Ronda Rousey returns to MMA on May 16
- She will fight Gina Carano on a Netflix card
- Kobe Bryant sent a supportive message after Rousey's 2015 defeat
- Bryant passed away in January 2020
- The message has emotional significance for Rousey
Mentioned in this story
Kobe Bryant
Ronda RouseyGina Carano
Photo by Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images
Ronda Rousey is days away from her MMA return, with “Rowdy” set to headline Most Valuable Promotions’ Netflix card against Gina Carano on May 16.
The build-up has already carried a heavy emotional pull, after Netflix released footage of Rousey being shown an old message from Kobe Bryant.
The NBA legend sent it after Rousey’s crushing 2015 defeat to Holly Holm. He died in January 2020, more than four years after offering support at her lowest sporting point.
Ronda Rousey cries after seeing Kobe Bryant’s message
Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images
The video shows MVP CEO and co-founder Nakisa Bidarian sending Bryant’s words to Rousey, who becomes visibly emotional as the meaning lands years later.
“No way. You cannot be a legend without getting knocked on your a—. People can’t relate to perfection. They relate to a beautiful struggle,” the former Lakers star said.
“She will be loved more than she could ever have imagined. All she needs to do is get up and try again with her head held high.”
“What the f— is a story without tragedy? No tragedy equals no hero. Show her this message. I’m in her corner 1,000%.”
The message is powerful because Bryant understood the brutality of public failure. Rousey had not just lost a fight, she had lost the aura that made her feel untouchable, and that changed everything.
Holly Holm defeat changed Ronda Rousey’s career
Before Holm, Rousey was unbeaten in MMA and 6-0 in the UFC, with every win in the promotion coming by knockout or submission.
Q&A
What did Kobe Bryant say to Ronda Rousey in his message?
Kobe Bryant's message to Ronda Rousey offered support after her 2015 defeat, encouraging her during a difficult time in her career.
When is Ronda Rousey's MMA return fight scheduled?
Ronda Rousey's MMA return fight is scheduled for May 16, where she will headline a card against Gina Carano.
How did Kobe Bryant's death impact Ronda Rousey?
Kobe Bryant's death in January 2020 left a significant emotional impact on Ronda Rousey, especially as she reflects on his support during her toughest moments.
