Ronda Rousey credited Paul Heyman with teaching her crucial media skills during her WWE tenure that she continues to use today. The former UFC champion discussed Heyman’s influence during a media scrum Thursday ahead of her fight with Gina Carano.
Rousey explained how Heyman’s guidance shaped her approach to press conferences and promotional work. When asked what aspects of her WWE experience she applies now, she pointed specifically to organizing her thoughts for media appearances.
“I don’t think in the training, but definitely in the preparation for press conferences and how I organize my thoughts. I learned so much from Paul Heyman, and he told me that no matter what you’re saying, always bring it around to the fight, you’re always trying to sell a fight, and always end on the best line,” Rousey stated.
Rousey’s WWE History With Heyman
Rousey worked closely with Heyman throughout her WWE runs. The Olympic bronze medalist first appeared for WWE at WrestleMania 31 in 2015 and made her formal debut three years later at the Royal Rumble.
After headlining WrestleMania 35 in 2019, she took a leave and had her first child. She returned at the Royal Rumble in January 2022 before eventually departing the company.
The full media scrum video is available below. Rousey’s fight with Carano is scheduled for this Saturday night on Netflix.