Dana White: Miesha Tate’s First Title Defense Will Be Against Ronda Rousey

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Dana White says Ronda Rousey will likely get the first title shot against the newly crowned champion in Miesha Tate upon her return. White joined Chael Sonnen and Gilbert Melendez on ESPN to discuss what went down at UFC 196, and his plans for the future of the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship.

“I think that Ronda now will now fight Miesha Tate for the title – that’s what’s gonna happen,” White said. “That’s what I said before this fight even happened. Whoever wins tonight will fight Ronda for the title.

“I texted Ronda – she wasn’t watching the fight. I texted her and she said, “What happened?” And I said, “Miesha just choked her unconscious.” She said, “Looks like I gotta get back to work.” I don’t know what that means. (laughing) Ronda is scheduled not to come back until October or November. But it doesn’t mean I can’t ask.”

Rousey’s rematch with Holly Holm will likely be pushed all the way back to UFC 200 in November, but White says that’s okay with him.

“Ronda Rousey has worked very hard for 3 and a half years for this company,” White explained, “She did everything that was asked, and went above and beyond the call of duty. If she wants to stay out until October, I will let her do that.”

ronda-rousey-miesha-tate-3

Dana White says Ronda Rousey will likely get the first title shot against the newly crowned champion in Miesha Tate upon her return. White joined Chael Sonnen and Gilbert Melendez on ESPN to discuss what went down at UFC 196, and his plans for the future of the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship.

“I think that Ronda now will now fight Miesha Tate for the title – that’s what’s gonna happen,” White said. “That’s what I said before this fight even happened. Whoever wins tonight will fight Ronda for the title.

“I texted Ronda – she wasn’t watching the fight. I texted her and she said, “What happened?” And I said, “Miesha just choked her unconscious.” She said, “Looks like I gotta get back to work.” I don’t know what that means. (laughing) Ronda is scheduled not to come back until October or November. But it doesn’t mean I can’t ask.”

Rousey’s rematch with Holly Holm will likely be pushed all the way back to UFC 200 in November, but White says that’s okay with him.

“Ronda Rousey has worked very hard for 3 and a half years for this company,” White explained, “She did everything that was asked, and went above and beyond the call of duty. If she wants to stay out until October, I will let her do that.”