Dana White reveals how Ronda Rousey took only “minutes” to change his NO WOMEN policy in UFC mindset

Dana White has revealed that it took only a few minutes for Ronda Rousey to change his mind about women fighting in the UFC. White had previously insisted that women would “never” compete inside the promotion. However, a brief conversation with Rousey at a UFC event made him reconsider his position.White recalled that Rousey approached him and asked for 15 minutes of his time. They spoke privately at the arena. Within minutes, White said he realised that Rousey had the personality and determination needed to lead a new women’s division. Her success later proved that decision right and helped transform women’s MMA.Ronda Rousey changed Dana White’s view in minutesUFC President Dana White has often spoken about the meeting with Ronda Rousey. It became one of the most important moments in UFC history.“Ronda Rousey grabbed me at an event, said, ‘Hey, I’m Ronda Rousey. Can I get 15 minutes with you?’ We went into my room at the arena… and, I don’t know, minutes into the conversation, I’m like, ‘Holy shit. I think I’m going to do this and she’s the one to do it with,’ you know?” White said.Before their conversation, White had publicly maintained that women would never fight in the UFC. Rousey challenged that view with her confidence and belief in herself.According to White, Rousey stood out from other fighters. She had a strong personality and a clear understanding of how she could become a major star. She also had a huge amount of self-belief.White eventually decided that Rousey could become the face of women’s MMA in the UFC.The decision quickly produced results. Rousey became the UFC’s first female fighter. She was also named the inaugural UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion.Her performances made her one of the biggest stars in the promotion. Rousey became a major pay-per-view attraction and headlined several UFC events.Her popularity also helped change the UFC’s approach to women’s MMA. More female fighters were given opportunities. Multiple women’s divisions were eventually introduced.The success of Rousey also helped open the door for future stars. Fighters such as Amanda Nunes, Joanna Jędrzejczyk and Cris Cyborg went on to become major names in the sport.White and Rousey have also remained close despite their careers taking different paths. Rousey has described White as one of her closest friends and has credited him with playing an important role in her career.Their relationship continued even after Rousey moved away from the UFC. Before her return to combat sports against Gina Carano at a Most Valuable Promotions event shown live on Netflix, Rousey reportedly gave the UFC an opportunity to make a counter-offer.White instead supported her decision. He also sent Rousey a supportive message on fight day.There has even been speculation about Rousey’s future in MMA leadership. Former UFC fighter Dan Hardy has suggested that she could potentially succeed White as the head of the promotion one day.For now, however, White remains in charge.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.