In a shocking revelation, WWE superstar Becky Lynch has pulled back the curtain on the backstage dynamics that explain why Ronda Rousey is one of the most polarizing figures in the locker room. Despite Rousey’s undeniable star power and accomplishments in both MMA and WWE, Lynch’s insights provide a deeper understanding of the tension and animosity that surrounds the former UFC champion within WWE circles.
The Source of the Tension
In a candid interview, Becky Lynch offered several reasons why Ronda Rousey has garnered significant dislike among her peers in WWE:
1. Transition from MMA to WWE: Ronda Rousey’s transition from MMA to professional wrestling was met with mixed reactions. While her mainstream appeal brought more attention to WWE, some wrestlers felt that she hadn’t paid her dues in the same way they had. The perception that Rousey was given preferential treatment because of her UFC fame created underlying resentment.
2. Work Ethic and Attitude: According to Lynch, some members of the locker room were critical of Rousey’s work ethic and attitude. Professional wrestling requires not just athletic ability but also a deep respect for the craft and the grueling schedule. Rousey’s perceived lack of understanding or appreciation for these aspects led to friction with other wrestlers who had spent years honing their skills and building their careers from the ground up.
3. Authenticity and Respect: Lynch emphasized that the wrestling community values authenticity and mutual respect. Rousey’s outspoken nature and controversial statements, both in and out of character, often rubbed her colleagues the wrong way. Her occasional disparaging remarks about wrestling being “fake” undermined the efforts of her fellow wrestlers, further alienating her from the locker room.
4. Competitive Jealousy: Another factor contributing to the animosity is simple competitive jealousy. Rousey’s arrival and immediate push to the top of the card, including headlining WrestleMania, sparked envy among some wrestlers. This fast-tracked success created a competitive tension, as many felt she had leapfrogged over deserving talent.
Lynch’s Perspective
Becky Lynch, who has had her share of clashes with Rousey both on-screen and off, provided a balanced view. She acknowledged Rousey’s contributions to raising the profile of women’s wrestling but also highlighted the importance of respecting the industry’s traditions and the hard work of its athletes.
Professionalism and Respect: Lynch stressed that for someone to be embraced by the WWE locker room, they must show professionalism and respect for the industry. She pointed out that while Rousey brought significant attention to the women’s division, her approach often seemed to lack the humility and respect that many wrestlers felt was necessary.
Potential for Change: Interestingly, Lynch did not completely rule out the possibility of Rousey mending relationships in the locker room. She suggested that if Rousey were to adopt a more respectful and understanding attitude towards her colleagues and the wrestling business, there could be room for reconciliation and mutual respect.
Conclusion
Becky Lynch’s revelation about the backstage dynamics involving Ronda Rousey sheds light on the complexities of the professional wrestling industry. Rousey’s meteoric rise and crossover appeal brought new fans to WWE but also stirred significant controversy and resentment within the locker room. The issues of respect, authenticity, and the perceived hierarchy within WWE are central to the tension surrounding Rousey.
As the wrestling world digests Lynch’s candid comments, it remains to be seen whether Rousey will address these concerns and how this might impact her standing within WWE. For now, the backstage drama adds another layer to the already intense and captivating world of professional wrestling.
