“Think About Stepping Away” – Ronda Rousey, Then Undefeated, Once Suggested That Late NBA Legend Kobe Bryant Should Just Retire From the Sport

Ronda Rousey is arguably the most well-known female fighter in UFC history. She is responsible for drawing attention to the women’s bantamweight division of the UFC. Fans loved her fiery attitude and elite judo skills. Let us look back at when she suggested NBA legend Kobe Bryant to retire.

In October 2015, Rousey appeared as a guest on ESPN’s SportsCenter. During her time on the show, she demonstrated how to perform her signature armbar and suggested that Kobe Bryant retire from the Lakers. This contentious moment happened when a reporter asked Rousey about her advice to Kobe Bryant, who at the time was considering retirement.

She said, “I think if you’re wondering whether or not you should play, that’s the time that you should kind of think about stepping away.” Rousey added, “Every single time I pull up to the gym, I park, and I run from my car into the door of the gym because I’m so excited to be there. If you’re wondering whether or not you should be there, it’s getting to be about that time.”

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Although some feel that Rousey’s comments were a tad bit rude, she had Bryant’s best interest at heart. She has previously revealed that she got along with Bryant during her time in the Olympics. Rousey had only good things to say about Bryant and is undoubtedly a fan of the legend.

The UFC Career of Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey had a bitter-sweet career in the UFC. She had a meteoric rise after winning the women’s bantamweight title in 2013.

Since then, she successfully defended the belt five times with big wins over top contenders – Cat Zingano and Miesha Tate. Sadly for her, things would take a turn for the worse, as she was knocked out spectacularly in her next bout. Holly Holm threw a beautifully placed head kick in the second round, knocking out Rousey.

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Rousey tried to challenge for the title again. Things went horribly wrong as Amanda Nunes knocked her out in the very first round. Rousey retired from the UFC after this fight and transitioned to the WWE.

What do you make of Ronda Rousey’s comments? Do you agree with her? Let us know in the comments below.