With accomplishments like hers in a male-dominated scene, it would be crazy to not think of Rousey as a feminist icon.
Still, it looks like Rousey isn’t keen on wearing that kind of label. She believes that fighting is “a human thing” rather than “a man’s thing”, so gender is irrelevant.
An Homage to Roddy Piper
Late wrestler Rowdy Roddy Piper is a WWE legend with multiple championship titles. Ronda has looked up to him for years. When she started her own career, she asked him if she could use "Rowdy" as a nickname as well, and he happily agreed.
Now Rousey is commonly known in the wrestling scene as “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey. In 2015, Piper had a heart attack which resulted in his unfortunate death.
Showing Men How It's Done
The October 2015 issue of Men’s Fitness magazine was unusual — it was the magazine's first issue to feature a woman on the cover. That woman was Ronda, who once again did something no other woman has done before.
There is no denying that Rousey is easy on the eyes, but that wasn't the topic covered. She was pictured in her Reebok sports clothes under the title "Think You’re Tough?". The feature story focused on her as an inspiration and a woman of many accomplishments. People had different opinions on the magazine's choice of a cover girl, but it was ultimately celebrated for it.
It's All About the Money
Much like in other industries, the pay gap is an issue in sports as well. Female fighters are often paid less than their male counterparts.
When asked about the issue, Rousey turned to math and said that ultimately, it makes sense for those who have more fights to be making more money.
Praised by Tina Fey
In 2016, Ronda made it into the list of 100 Most Influential People of TIME Magazine. She was highly praised in Tina Fey's editorial piece for her strength and her perception of feminity.
Fey said she admires Rousey for the impact she's had on women in sports and young girls. They can look up to her and see that they don't have to choose between femininity and strength.