The Stunning Upset That Changed Everything

In a jaw-dropping moment at UFC 193 in 2015, Holly Holm delivered a head kick knockout that shocked the world and dethroned Ronda Rousey, capturing the bantamweight championship. However, Holm's reign was short-lived, as she lost her title less than four months later to Miesha Tate at UFC 196.

Dana White's Frustration Revealed

UFC CEO Dana White recently expressed his frustration, revealing that he attempted to set up an immediate rematch between Holm and Rousey that could have changed her life financially. Instead, Holm’s management team declined the lucrative offer, choosing to fight Tate for the same pay.

White didn’t hold back during his conversation with Jim Rome, hinting that Holm’s advisors may have made a critical error that set back her career. "These are the same guys that had Holly Holm and in my opinion ruined her life," he stated.

What Could Have Been

At the time, Rousey was a massive star, and the rematch would have capitalized on the historic upset. White recalled how Holm’s team ignored the chance for what he described as 'unbelievable money,' favoring a safer fight against Tate instead.

"I told them in that meeting... she’s going to lose by choke. That’s exactly what happened," White lamented, emphasizing the irony of their decisions.

A Career Pivot After UFC

After her defeat against Tate, Holm fought diligently but struggled to reclaim her title, eventually asking for her release from the UFC in early 2025. She has since returned to her boxing roots, now with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions.

Rousey’s Final Chapters

As for Rousey, her loss marked a significant turning point. After a year-long hiatus, she attempted a comeback in a title bout against Amanda Nunes, which ended in a devastating first-round knockout. This fight marked her final appearance in the octagon.

The anticipated rematch between Holm and Rousey never came to fruition, leaving fans wondering what might have been.