Before becoming a notable personality in the world of women’s MMA, ex-UFC champion, Ronda Rousey, made herself known by winning a medal at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

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In an old interview, the UFC Hall of Famer and the six-time women’s bantamweight champion, Ronda Rousey, shared her experience of the summer Olympics games. She also talked about her experience with other American athletes, including NBA star, Kobe Bryant.

The current WWE athlete stated to have a good relationship with all other American Olympians, except for one. ‘Rowdy’ was annoyed by the multi-time Olympic medalist, Michael Phelps’ behavior during their meet at the games.

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“Get over yourself. All you do is swim. If someone slapped you every single time you jumped in the pool, then I’d have a little more respect,” Rousey told ES News.  

Additionally, in the interview, ‘Rowdy’ claimed that Phelps didn’t mingle with other athletes. He also demanded his own area and was kept separate from other athletes during The Oprah Winfrey Show.

READ MORE: Michael Phelps, Whom Ronda Rousey Criticized for His Attitude, Is $70 Million Richer Than All the Current UFC Champions Combined

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All these factors became the reason for Rousey’s harsh criticism of Phelps. Despite the difference, both renowned names in the sports industry, Rousey and Phelps had a thing in common.

Ronda Rousey and Michael Phelps struggled with the same troubles in life

In the process of achieving legendary status in their respective sports, athletes face many physical and mental adversities. Rousey and Phelps also had a similar phase in their life.

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Ronda Rousey

USA Today via Reuters

During her appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, the former UFF bantamweight champion, Rousey revealed her lowest time after suffering her first professional loss in the UFC.

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Similarly, the Olympic ace Phelps also talked about his depression in an interview with CNN. Despite all the adversities, both Rousey and Phelps have excelled in their respective fields.

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Their successful stint in the world of sports has put them among the greatest athletes on the planet.

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What are your thoughts on both the athletes? What do you guys think about Rousey’s words for Phelps? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Afnan Chougle

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Afnan Chougle is a UFC author at EssentiallySports. Besides writing, this Media graduate is an integral part of the digital web stories team for combat sports. Before joining EssentiallySports, Afnan gained valuable experience as an intern at Jiostudios Production House. He uses his experience and passion to further his professional career and provide unique insight into all things UFC and combat sports. A Khabib Nurmagomedov fan, Afnan, has religiously followed MMA ever since UFC 229. Other than 'The Eagle' he adores Muhammad Ali. Furthermore, he is a fan of Joe Rogan and seldom misses an episode of the Joe Rogan Experience. Apart from his professional exploits as a UFC journalist, Afnan enjoys catching Hotboxin' episodes, honing his skills as an amateur actor and loves going on occasional treks.

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Vibhanshu Kumar