Ronda Rousey is featured in this week’s edition of Sports Illustrated as well as a television feature for the NBC Sports Network.
The article’s title, “Ronda Rousey lays the smack down,” appears to be a lean toward the WWE’s The Rock’s famous catch phrase. The SI article covers Rousey’s upbringing and how she became one of the most popular MMA athletes.
The television features was shown this past Saturday and will rerun on Tuesday.
The two latest mainstream spots reflect the fact that Rousey is a compelling figure in the world of MMA.
(h/t: MMA Junkie)
Payout Perspective:
Melissa Segura, SI’s scribe for the Rousey article describes Rousey as “the sport’s (MMA) most transcendent star.” But, does the coverage reflect the crossover mainstream appeal of Rousey or the fact she is a novelty in a sport dominated by men? Both Rousey’s personality, looks and the fact she dominates women’s MMA are reasons for her notoriety.
If you read Segura’s five outtakes on SI.com, Rousey’s backstory is compelling. If you have watched her “All Access” show on Showtime prior to the Kaufman fight, you should have taken away that she is an inspiration to many young women wishing to a pursue MMA. And Dana White recognizes her talent and marketability to the point he’s changed course on women in the UFC.
What will be interesting is determining how many compelling fights the UFC can draw from Rousey. Aside from a matchup with Cyborg Santos, will viewers be drawn to the attraction of Rousey squashing opponents in one round?
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