Ronda Rousey reveals her new coach was a huge influence on her decision to come back to fight Gina Carano
Key Points:
- Ronda Rousey initially despised coach Ricky Lundell, who worked against her on The Ultimate Fighter, mistaking his kindness for insincerity despite his genuine nature.
- Lundell, a respected wrestling and grappling coach, later became connected to Rousey through her husband Travis Browne, which eventually softened her feelings toward him during a period of mental health struggles.
- During her depression after tough UFC losses, Rousey stayed at Lundell’s house, where his support helped her through difficult times, leading to a friendship and mutual respect.
- Lundell’s desire to earn a black belt in judo prompted Rousey to train him, which sparked the idea for her MMA comeback and the fight against Gina Carano.
- The upcoming Rousey-Carano fight on May 16, promoted by Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions and broadcast by Netflix, marks Rousey’s first fight in a decade, with Rouse crediting Lundell for positively changing her life and career trajectory.