Ronda Rousey highlights the benefits of indie wrestling

**Ronda Rousey makes a case for post-WWE wrestling independence .

In a candid discussion about ‘Wild Ride! with Steve-O,” Rousey shares insights from her new book “Our Fight: A Memoir” and reveals her plans to continue her wrestling career on her own terms. Rousey, who left WWE after her last appearance at SummerSlam 2023, has since embraced the indie wrestling circuit and found solace in the less restrictive environment.

“If I wrestle from now on, I’ll just do it on an indie show where I can wrestle as long as I want, prepare as much as I need and do all the moves I want,” Rousey explained. She emphasized the personal enjoyment and reduced stress of wrestling independently, “with my friends,” as opposed to the high-pressure and often dangerous conditions she experienced in WWE.

“WWE’s Chaotic Environment”

During her tenure with WWE, Rousey described the atmosphere as a “disorganized sh** show,” characterized by inadequate coaching and abrupt, last-minute decisions that left little room for preparation or rehearsal.

This, she notes, is in stark contrast to the indie scene, where there is a greater opportunity to create well-thought-out matches through thorough preparation and rehearsal. “The ability to properly rehearse and prepare can significantly increase the quality of matches,” says Rousey, a UFC Hall of Famer.

She recalled instances within WWE where she was pushed into the ring with minimal guidance, often only being told how long the match lasted and what moves were forbidden. Since her transition to the indie scene, Rousey has competed in several matches, including a notable tag team match for Ring of Honor.

Her move has allowed her to not only redefine her wrestling career, but also take control of her in-ring narrative, free from the unpredictability and limitations of corporate wrestling entities. Rousey’s journey underscores a growing trend among wrestlers seeking more autonomy over their careers, reflecting a sentiment for authenticity and personal growth that goes beyond the glitzy veneer of televised wrestling.

Her story is a beacon for other athletes considering a similar transition from the mainstream to the grassroots of wrestling. For more insights from Ronda Rousey, ‘Our Fight: A Memoir’ delves deeper into her life and career decisions.

Quotes from her interview are from “Wild Ride! with Steve-O”, with transcription provided to Wrestling Inc.