Ronda Rousey was chosen by Fortune as one of its “40 under 40,” in its annual list compiled by the magazine. The list identifies the top young professionals that influence business under the age of 40.
Per Fortune, the list is “a measure of power and influence.” To find out how they compiled the list, go here.
Rousey, 28, was chosen based on her undefeated record in the UFC and her burgeoning mainstream movie career. According to Forbes, she’s made an estimated $5 million from fighting this year. On a recent appearance on “Ellen,” Rousey stated that she was the highest paid fighter in the UFC. Aside from “Ellen,” the UFC has made inroads into the mainstream TV talk show circuit due to the women’s bantamweight champion. This includes Rousey appearing on ABC’s “Good Morning America” to announce her latest fight against Holly Holm.
In addition to her movie appearances, the release of her book earlier this year has done well in sales.
The Forbes writeup also highlights a speech she gave about body image and gained more interest after Beyonce used it during a concert.
On another note, Rousey, nor any other UFC fighter made the list of Forbes’ world’s highest paid athletes for 2015. Of course, if Rousey is the highest paid fighter, there would be no other UFC fighter on the list which has Floyd Mayweather at the top.
Payout Perspective:
While the cynical might note that the list might be PR driven, it still is a remarkable ascent considering the fact Dana White once said he never wanted women to fight in the UFC. Rousey’s star is on the rise and the Fortune recognition shows her popularity. Vicariously through this acknowledgement, it provides some good public relations for the UFC. It will be interesting to see where we are one or two years from now and see if Rousey makes the transition (similar to The Rock, note that they share the same agent) to movies.
Why is Forbes given any integrity when it comes down to Ronda Rousey’s pay? They don’t have a clue what she makes. I remember not long ago, Forbes writing articles oblivious to the fact that UFC ppv headliners received ppv points, and now Forbes has audit rights for UFC fighters???? Comical. Forbes doesn’t understand the fight business at all. Never has, never will.
I know right. Everyone knows that Rousey made $2M at the most.
Have you taken your meds yet today?