On Wednesday, the good folks over at MiddeEasy.com posted this screen capture, taken by writer Jason Floyd, from the UFC’s Brazilian website:
The headline was removed shortly after, but it was more than enough to get the rumor mill buzzing at a full on roar. Sure enough, less than a day later, we now have official confirmation that newly crowned women’s 135 pound champion Ronda Rousey will make her much-anticipated UFC debut on February 23rd at UFC 157.
But, before you all rush out and book your flights to Anaheim, Rousey’s first title defense won’t be the superfight match up against Cris Cyborg for which fans have been clamoring.
Rousey will instead make her debut against Strikeforce and Invicta FC veteran Liz Carmouche (7-2). The 28-year-old Marine Corps veteran Carmouche may not be a household name like Rousey or Cyborg Santos, but her addition to the card adds an extra element of significance to the event.
Not only will this be the first time in UFC history that a female has competed, but it will also be the first time that an openly gay fighter has fought in the Octagon.
To say this is MMA history in the making would be an understatement.
Stay tuned to ProMMANow.com as we continue to keep you up to speed on all the latest news surrounding Rousey and the rest of the UFC’s fledgling women’s 135 pound division. Dan Henderson vs. “Shogun” Rua and Urijah Faber vs. Ivan Menjivar have also been tapped for the UFC 157 card set to take place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.
[…] Ronda Rousey vs. Liz Carmouche will headline UFC 157 […]