Rousey vs. Holm confirmed for UFC 195

Undefeated women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey (12-0) will defend her title against the also undefeated Holly Holm (9-0) on Saturday 2nd January at UFC 195.

Hosted at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, this is certain to be an enthralling bout between two of MMA’s most dominant female fighters. ‘Rowdy’ is currently enjoying endless success; be that in or outside of the Octagon. She destroyed Bethe Correia at UFC 190 on 1st August; clinching an emphatic victory via knockout after a mere 34 seconds.

Today’s announcement for UFC 195 came via ABC’s “Good Morning America” who had Rousey on the couch. The match-up against Holm has come as a shock to the MMA community as many expected UFC President Dana White to confirm the third meeting between the champ and her most famed rival Miesha Tate, but clearly the potential for five rounds with Holm was an opportunity too rich to miss.

Holm herself couldn’t be in a better position for a title shot; the former world champion boxer has cruised through tough opponents and ended six of her nine matches with a knockout.

When quizzed about her prospects of beating Holm, ‘Rowdy’ pulled no punches.

“I can take anybody,” Rousey said. “I prepare for a five-round war every time I get in there. No one’s easy until you beat them. Holly Holm is the type ready to go 12 boxing rounds.”

Calls for Rousey to fight Invicta FC featherweight champion Cris “Cyborg” Justino (14-1) have been loud this month, as the consensus number 1 and 2 female fighters in the world each recorded sub-minute knockouts this summer.

The UFC has stood fast by its demand that “Cyborg”, who fights at 145 pounds, cut to the bantamweight limit as the company does not currently have a featherweight division for females.