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Holly Holm’s first UFC title defense won’t be against Ronda Rousey

Still considered the top bantamweight female MMA fighter in the world by UFC, her knockout at the hands (foot?) of Holly Holm in November made worldwide headlines and may actually have increased her fame.

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For another thing, if Tate were to win, she would be the next legitimate contender for a fight against Rousey, not Holm. “We understand there are risks, but Holly’s a dominant champion, and she wants to fight the best”. Holm has previously expressed her desire to square off against Tate and believes that the 29-year-old deserves a title shot. During an appearance on ESPN Radio’s Mike and Mike on December 3, UFC president Dana White said Rousey (12-1) would get a rematch, adding he and UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta should “probably lose our promoter’s license if didn’t make that rematch”. “She’s taking some well-deserved time off. But you’ll see her fight again”. You can find his podcast, The Fight Club Chicago, and subscribe on iTunes, Soundcloud, Stitcher and You Tube.

White was hoping the highly anticipated rematch would headline UFC 200 on July 9, but it appears Rousey will not be ready by then.

As for Rousey, the fact Holm will fight another opponent doesn’t mean the ex-champ will not compete again. Holm signed a multi-fight contract extension with the company earlier in the week.

Rousey is slated to host Saturday Night Live on January 23 and was recently spotted geeking out at Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The UFC has not yet announced her next fight.

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Holly Holm is beginning to wonder whether her biggest payday ever will even materialize. She is still recovering from her injuries sustained against the fight with Holm, but she has a very busy schedule.

Holly Holm