The rivalry between Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate is one of the most iconic and significant in the history of women’s mixed martial arts. Before their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 168, a palpable tension filled the air, with fans eager to see if Miesha Tate could defy expectations and solve the seemingly invincible puzzle of “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey. The video above captures this historic bout, showcasing the raw intensity and strategic depth that defined their encounters.
Their first fight had ended with Ronda Rousey submitting Tate via armbar in the first round, a move that had become Rousey’s devastating signature. However, Miesha Tate, known for her incredible resilience and grit, was determined to present a different challenge this time around. This rematch wasn’t just about a title; it was about proving evolution, skill, and sheer will against a formidable opponent.
UFC 168: The Rematch Unfolds – Early Exchanges and Strategic Play
From the moment the referee signaled “Let’s go,” both fighters met in the center of the octagon with aggressive intent. Ronda Rousey, the reigning UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion, immediately sought to assert her dominance, demonstrating an evolved striking game that many observers had not fully appreciated before. Early in the fight, commentators highlighted Rousey’s improved striking, noting that she was not solely relying on her judo and grappling prowess.
This development was a clear indicator of Ronda Rousey’s commitment to becoming a more well-rounded mixed martial artist. She connected with powerful left and right hands, and even demonstrated sharp knees to the thigh in the clinch, showcasing her diverse offensive arsenal. Her aim was clear: to maintain her championship reign for an extended period, which required mastery of all combat facets.
Ronda Rousey’s Unmatched Judo and Takedown Mastery
Despite her improved striking, Ronda Rousey’s judo remained her most potent weapon, and it was on full display during the contest. Her ability to execute takedowns with such precision and power often left opponents, including Miesha Tate, struggling to maintain their footing. In this particular bout, Ronda secured an impressive **four takedowns**, each one a testament to her Olympic-level judo background.
The commentators aptly described her judo as “so awesome” and “so technical,” noting how she instinctively recognized an opponent’s shifting weight and capitalized on their momentum. This strategic brilliance allowed her to transition effortlessly from striking exchanges to dominant ground positions. It is worth remembering that Ronda Rousey’s mother was the first American female judo world champion, and Ronda herself was the first American female to medal in judo at the Olympics, achievements that underscore the deep roots of her grappling excellence.
Miesha Tate’s Unyielding Spirit and Striking Prowess
Conversely, Miesha Tate proved why she was considered one of the toughest competitors in the sport. Despite being taken down multiple times and enduring significant punishment, she consistently fought back with remarkable tenacity. Tate’s striking game was also prominent, as she landed solid left hooks and combinations, particularly as the fight progressed.
Her durability was a significant talking point among commentators, who referenced her past ability to overcome adversity. Notably, Miesha Tate holds the distinction of being **the only fighter to overcome three knockdowns in a fight and come back to win**, a statistic that perfectly encapsulates her “Cupcake” toughness. This resilience was clearly evident at UFC 168; even when battered and bruised, she never stopped pushing forward, embodying the spirit of a true challenger. Miesha’s strategy to “drag Ronda into deep water” and make it a “dog fight” was apparent, as she forced Rousey into uncharted territory, lasting longer than any of Rousey’s previous opponents.
The Ground Game: A Chess Match of Submissions and Escapes
The true strategic chess match often unfolded on the ground, where Ronda Rousey’s submission game met Miesha Tate’s defensive acumen. Rousey is renowned for her armbar, and she consistently hunted for it throughout the fight, attacking from both top and bottom positions. Commentators detailed her specific techniques, such as squeezing her legs together to trap opponents in guard and pulling the opponent’s arm across her hips before switching for the finish.
Miesha Tate, however, was keenly aware of the danger. She made concerted efforts to protect her arms, particularly her left, which Ronda seemed to target relentlessly. Keeping her elbow “past the crotch” was highlighted as a key defensive maneuver to avoid the dreaded armbar. Tate also attempted to set up a triangle choke from her back at one point, illustrating her own offensive capabilities even when in a seemingly disadvantaged position. The constant back-and-forth, with Tate defending submissions and Rousey adjusting her attacks, made for compelling viewing.
UFC 168: The Climax and Ronda Rousey’s Decisive Finish
As the fight entered the third of the scheduled five five-minute rounds, the sheer will of both fighters was undeniable. Ronda Rousey continued to land powerful strikes in the clinch, while Miesha Tate continued to show incredible heart, attempting to land her own combinations and escapes. However, Ronda’s relentless pursuit of the armbar eventually paid off. She secured another takedown, transitioned skillfully, and locked in her signature submission.
At **58 seconds of the third round**, referee Mario Yamasaki was forced to stop the contest as Miesha Tate tapped out. Ronda “Rowdy” Rousey was once again declared the undisputed UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion, securing her victory via armbar. This finish, while consistent with her previous victories, was unique in that Miesha Tate had lasted longer than anyone else in Ronda’s professional career at that point. Despite the outcome, the brave performance of Miesha Tate at UFC 168 solidified her legacy as a warrior who pushed the champion to her limits, even if the result was the same devastating armbar.
Post-Fight Presser: Your Q&A on Rousey vs. Tate II
What event does this article describe?
This article describes the iconic rematch between Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate at UFC 168, where they fought for the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship.
What was Ronda Rousey’s most famous fighting technique?
Ronda Rousey was renowned for her devastating armbar submission, which was a signature move rooted in her Olympic-level judo background.
What quality was Miesha Tate known for as a fighter?
Miesha Tate was known for her incredible resilience and grit, often demonstrating an unyielding spirit even when facing tough opponents and situations.
How did the rematch between Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate at UFC 168 conclude?
Ronda Rousey won the rematch by submitting Miesha Tate with her signature armbar in the third round, retaining her UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship title.