Everyone was shocked on Saturday night (Nov. 14) when Ronda Rousey took her first “L” to Holly Holm – except undefeated women’s boxing champ Laila Ali. In an interview with TMZ, Muhammad Ali’s daughter gave her two cents on the matchup, noting that Holm is an accomplished fighter who did not back down against Rousey.
“She didn’t shock me, of course not. I’m familiar with Holly Holm, she’s a talented boxer, she’s a world champion, she’s got MMA background, and obviously was no chump. So I’m excited for her, and hopefully she’ll get the exposure she needs to take her career to the next level.”
Ali – who has been critical of Rousey’s skills in the past – declined to make too many comments about the 12-1 UFC fighter, but she did note that Holm was the “obvious” better fighter, and that Rousey could watch the tape back on her own to see what she needs to improve on. Ali also remarked that Rousey is not currently “the best in the world,” thanks to the beat down she was served in her prime.
“I don’t think I need to say that. It’s obvious who the better fighter was. […] It’s not even about her at this point. I think she can watch the tape and see what she needs to work on. […] In order to be the best in the world, you definitely don’t EVER get beat up like that in your prime, period.”
She also said a rematch between Rousey and Holm will end the same way as the first fight. Watch Laila Ali’s full commentary on Ronda Rousey below: