There is no doubt that Ronda Rousey has been an absolute legend and a true pioneer for women in the UFC. Her impact on the sport is undeniable, having paved the way for countless female fighters and breaking barriers in a male-dominated arena. However, despite her many accomplishments, Kayla Harrison has seemingly snubbed her legacy by emphasizing that Rousey never won an Olympic gold medal, something Harrison herself proudly holds, subtly slamming Rousey.
Ahead of her fight with Julianna Pena at UFC 316, Kayla Harrison shut down comparisons to Rousey. She points to her two Olympic gold medals in judo and contrasts them with Rousey’s bronze from the 2008 Olympics. Harrison dismissed the idea that their careers are on the same level, asserting her dominance and making it clear that she’s forging her own legacy, one she believes surpasses what Rousey achieved in both judo and MMA.
“First of all, I’m not Ronda because Ronda couldn’t win an Olympic gold medal… she doesn’t hold a candle to my career and it doesn’t matter because it’s not about that,” she said.
Kayla Harrison: First of all, I'm not Ronda cause Ronda couldn't win an Olympic Gold medal. pic.twitter.com/uzrPyXECun
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) May 31, 2025
Harrison is a big name in combat sports, but snubbing Rousey’s career was a bold move. By downplaying her legacy, Harrison has set high expectations for herself. Now, with her sights set on the UFC bantamweight title, she must back up her words with action inside the octagon. Winning the belt isn’t just a career milestone, and it’s a statement she needs to make to validate her claims and cement her legacy.
Julianna Pena Snubs Kayla Harrison Over PEDs
Pena subtly snubbing Harrison raised doubts about the trust people place in Olympians, saying some have used steroids and found ways to avoid getting caught. She pointed to the Icarus documentary, which shows how athletes from some countries cheat the system. Pena explained that these athletes know exactly when to take or stop using drugs so they can pass tests, using smart methods to stay one step ahead and keep an unfair edge.
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Subsequently, Pena said no one in the UFC seriously accused anyone of using steroids since 2013 until now. She told people to ask Kayla Harrison about drug use, not her. Indeed, their upcoming fight promises to be exciting as the rivalry between them is clearly intense and full of energy.
Also Read: Ilia Topuria Mocks Islam Makhachev, Vows To Chase Lightweight Gold At UFC 317 In Bold New Claim
