Rousey vs Baszler To Be MMA Rules Match at WWE SummerSlam 2023
SummerSlam 2023 PLE event will feature an additional MMA rules stipulation in the match between Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler.
During the July 31 episode of RAW, a video package was shown about Rousey and Baszler’s history. After the video package, it was officially announced that Rousey and Baszler would follow MMA rules at the SummerSlam PLE event.
During the video broadcast, it was recalled how Ronda Rousey served as a coach on The Ultimate Fighter, and Shayna Baszler joined the show as her protege despite having more experience as a fighter.
Get ready for MMA RULES between @RondaRousey & @QoSBaszler THIS SATURDAY at #SummerSlam!
— WWE (@WWE) August 1, 2023
📍 DETROIT
🎟️ https://t.co/8jJD4Qj6gn pic.twitter.com/FtDc5PSvaF
A follow-up video package also aired where Shayna accused Ronda of using her on every turn whether it was during their MMA days as a sparring partner, or in WWE as a shield in their tag team partnership. Shayna also revealed that she is the godmother of Ronda’s daughter, and her goddaughter would never forgive for what she would do to Ronda at SummerSlam.
During the July 24 episode of RAW, Baszler stated that she wanted a fight with Rousey. Without hesitation, Rousey accepted the challenge for the fight. WWE confirmed the match on July 27 via Twitter, but the MMA Rules stipulation was announced during this week’s RAW episode(July 31).
The rivalry between the best friends started at the Money in the Bank PPV event, where Baszler turned on Ronda Rousey during their WWE Women’s Tag Team title defense. Baszler also expressed her intention about the attack by mentioning she is the only one capable of defeating Ronda.
WWE SummerSlam 2023 is scheduled for August 5 in Detroit, MI. A special Battle Royal match is also announced for the event featuring the likes of Sheamus, LA Knight, Shinsuke Nakamura and others.