Ronda Rousey Wins UFC Fight, Stars Took to Twitter to Pay Tribute

UFC fighter Ronda Rousey impressed both fans and sports enthusiasts Saturday when she knocked out Bethe Correia in 34 seconds during the UFC 190 in Rio de Janeiro. People were in awe of the bantamweight champion’s win, with some celebrities taking to Twitter to express their admiration.

Saturday night’s victory marked Rousey’s third knockout match in less than 1 minute, ET Online reported. Die-hard fans of the UFC fighter were not surprised the mixed martial arts star won although what impressed them was Rousey managing to defeat her opponents in short matches.

A few Hollywood stars and others took to social media to congratulate the 28-year-old winner, including Demi Lovato who wrote, “THAT'S MY GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Nick Jonas seemed at a loss for words as he just posted “Wow,” while comedienne Iliza Shelesinger said Rousey was “such a champion” and “a tremendous joy to watch.” Boxing champ Sugar Ray Leonard also tweeted, saying, “Rousey is a beast! Amazing. Congrats!”

Even some of the NFL stars took notice, CBS Sports reported. Pittsburgh Steeler Antonio Brown wrote, “Already over in first round crazy @RondaRousey is amazing,” while NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers tweeted: “It is REALLY fun watching someone who is THAT dominant. Definitely worth staying up for.”

Former New Orleans Saints defensive lineman Will Smith also compared Rousey to another famous athlete, writing the UFC champion is a "female version of #miketyson.” Ex-running back Ryan Grant also saluted Rousey for being a role model for women athletes. Grant wrote: “Watching @RondaRousey is a beautiful thing. Her confidence, her skill and her respect for her craft. Something special in all aspects,” adding, “Right now American women's athletics are representing. Women's soccer, Misty Copeland, Serena Williams, Ronda Rousey. Salute.”

Meanwhile, Rousey dedicated her UFC 190 win to late “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, according to Entertainment Weekly . Piper, who died Thursday, reportedly had a big influence on Rousey’s life. The two athletes shared the same trainer, Gene LeBell, who became Rousey’s mentor. LeBell reportedly asked the late WWE legend’s permission for Rousey to use his nickname “Rowdy” in the ring. After receiving the permission, she became known as “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey.

When Rousey heard of Piper’s death, the UFC champion took to Instagram to post a touching tribute: “Thank you for the name … and so much more. Will do it justice and do you proud tomorrow. … This one’s for you Roddy …”

Rousey defeated Correia in 34 seconds in the first round.

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