When filmmakers are met with the force of nature that is Ronda Rousey, they obviously want to use her physical abilities in their films. But director Pete Berg saw something more in her.
Berg directed the 2018 film “Mile 22” and wanted Rousey to star in it and display more of her talents. He wanted her to show people that she had more to offer, and she was touched by his confidence in her.
A Different Kind of Performance
For those of you who aren't familiar with the world of wrestling and the different leagues — here is the difference between MMA fights and WWE: the former is real fights with real competition. The latter is scripted and the performance involves more stunts than actual fighting.
As we previously wrote, Rousey's mother taught her judo. But her so-called "mean-mug" — the fight face she has on in the ring — she learned that from her godfather.
Giving the Small Screen a Shot
After finishing her UFC stint, acting became a much bigger part of Rousey's life. As you now know, she's landed roles in film, but she was keen on giving TV a shot too.
She's had several guest performances in the past few years, most memorably in 2017 as a prisoner on the drama series "Blindspot". Rousey enjoyed the experience and said she would love to reprise the role.
Kids Are Brutal
Being a teenage girl is hard (even as a world-class athlete) and Ronda was no different. Her strong muscles and sturdy form got other kids talking about her and teasing her. Not very smart considering the fact she could knock them all out without breaking a sweat, but the words got to her and they hurt really bad.
She had a lot to overcome mentally, only to be attacked by the memories after losing to Holm. When that happened, Rousey started having some dark thoughts about taking her own life.
Opening up to Ellen
It's hard to imagine someone as strong as Rousey break down, but it's important to remember that she is simply human. When coming on the Elle DeGeneres show in 2016, Ronda opened up about the dark place she was in after losing to Holm.
She emotionally spoke about feeling like she had nothing left to live for after this. But according to her, in that second, she looked up at Browne, who was at her side, and realized there was more to life than winning fights. Rousey showing her vulnerable side was an inspiration to anyone who has ever felt the same.