Ronda Rousey is an accomplished professional wrestler and mixed martial artist, but even she knows cheating when she sees it in the world of American football. That’s why, in 2015, the reigning SmackDown Women’s Champion slammed NFL legend Tom Brady for having allegedly done just that.
The accusations arose during an interview with Sports Illustrated, where Rousey was questioned on Tom Brady’s involvement in the ‘Deflategate’ controversy during a game between the New England Patriots and the Indianapolis Colts. It’s alleged that Tom Brady had ordered the deflation of footballs used in the 2014 AFC Championship Game.
Ronda Rousey didn’t hold back when criticising Brady for his involvement, outright stating that the quarterback had cheated:
“Well, if you’re seeking the advantage you didn’t earn, then I think it’s cheating. So if he has an advantage with the grip of the balls, the other team doesn’t have, what did he do to earn that? He doesn’t deserve to have that advantage. I think that is cheating.”
Tom Brady was suspended for four games due to his involvement in the scandal. The New England Patriots were also fined $1 million and forfeited two draft picks in 2016.
Ronda Rousey Has Found Her Voice During Second WWE Run
Ronda Rousey may never be a star quarterback like Tom Brady is, but she has found success of her own competing for WWE and UFC. In the former, she’s in her second reign as SmackDown Women’s Champion, having bested Liv Morgan in an Extreme Rules match at the namesake premium live event.
Speaking during her Ronda On The Road series on YouTube, Rousey explained how her second run in the sports entertainment giant has been easier for her, having now found her voice:
“I think this run is easier because I kind of know how things work around here and I’ve kind of paid up more of my dues. I have put enough time here that they’ll at least hear me out and explain to me why I’m wrong if I am, you know, and that way I learned something. I think I feel like I have more of a voice this time and confidence to use it.”
Ronda Rousey is next due to defend the SmackDown Women’s Championship against Shotzi at Survivor Series: WarGames on November 26.