For Promoters: Rose vs. Joanna: Redefining the Perception of Women's Bodies in Fight Sports
Nilmi Fight League's main focus is on striking sports: Muay Thai, Boxing and MMA.
Though we are still veering through the heavy and long standing world of boxing, the landscape of mixed martial arts (MMA) has been profoundly influenced by the intense matches and inspiring journeys of its athletes. And this past week's "eyelash debacle" has been one we cannot sit back and watch without commenting.
See below!
A particularly intriguing matchup that has sparked discussions is between Rose Namajunas and Tracy Cortez. Both fighters represent the evolving dynamics of women's roles in combat sports. They are role models for other women in the sport and Cortez, in particular, for people of colour.
The Fighters: Rose Namajunas and Tracy Cortez
Rose Namajunas is a household name in the UFC, celebrated for her technical prowess, agility, and remarkable mental resilience. Her career has been marked by significant victories, including her stunning wins over Joanna Jędrzejczyk, which solidified her status as a top-tier athlete in the strawweight division. Namajunas' fighting style is characterized by her fluid movement, strategic precision, and a versatile skill set that makes her a formidable opponent in the octagon.
Tracy Cortez, on the other hand, is a rising star in the UFC's flyweight division. Known for her grappling skills and tenacity, Cortez has rapidly gained attention for her impressive performances. Her journey through MMA has been one of perseverance and determination, often overcoming personal and professional challenges to establish herself as a serious contender. Cortez’s wrestling background and relentless fighting spirit make her a unique and exciting fighter to watch.
Challenging Perceptions of Women's Bodies
The matchup between Namajunas and Cortez brings to the forefront important discussions about women's bodies in combat sports. Historically, female athletes have been subjected to societal expectations of femininity and beauty, often overshadowing their athletic accomplishments. In a sport as physically demanding and intense as MMA, these pressures are even more pronounced.
AKA promoters: stop talking about women's bodies.
Namajunas and Cortez, through their dedication and performance, challenge these outdated perceptions. They exemplify that strength, endurance, and resilience are not only compatible with but are essential to their identities as fighters. The physical demands of MMA—bruises, cuts, and the visible marks of battle—are a testament to their commitment and skill, rather than detracting from their femininity.
Women Commenting on Women's Bodies in Fight Sports
A critical aspect of this discussion is how women within the sport perceive and comment on each other’s bodies. Female athletes often face judgment not only from male counterparts and fans but also from fellow female fighters. This dynamic can be both empowering and problematic.
Positive recognition of each other’s physical and mental strengths fosters a supportive environment. When female fighters, like Namajunas and Cortez, acknowledge each other's skills and resilience, it builds a sense of solidarity and respect. Such interactions are vital in normalizing the physicality of the sport and promoting a culture of mutual encouragement.
Conversely, negative comments about each other’s bodies can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and add to the pressure female athletes face. It is crucial for women in combat sports to focus on uplifting and supporting one another. Celebrating each other's strengths and achievements can help mitigate external pressures and create a more inclusive and positive community.
Simply put, let's focus on lifting each other up, rather than tearing each other down.
The Future of Women in MMA
The bout between Rose Namajunas and Tracy Cortez symbolizes more than just a potential clash of skills; it represents a significant step in the ongoing evolution of women's roles in MMA. These athletes demonstrate that true strength lies not in conforming to traditional gender expectations but in embracing and showcasing their unique capabilities.
As MMA continues to grow, the representation and respect for female fighters will undoubtedly evolve. It is essential for the MMA community—fighters, fans, and commentators alike—to support and uplift women in the sport. By doing so, future generations of female fighters will be recognized for their remarkable talents and continue to inspire others to break boundaries.
The stories of Rose Namajunas and Tracy Cortez are powerful reminders that in the octagon, and in life, it is not about fitting into a mold but about breaking it entirely. Their dedication, skill, and resilience serve as an inspiration, proving that women's bodies in combat sports are a testament to strength and perseverance.
Beyond the Physical: Shifting the Focus in Fight Sports
Ultimately, the focus in fight sports should be on the athletes' skills, determination, and strategic prowess rather than their physical appearances. While the bodies of female fighters like Namajunas and Cortez are undoubtedly powerful and impressive, they should not be the primary subject of scrutiny or commentary. AKA stop talking about women's bodies and start talking about the sport. The thought in your head should be "would I ask a man this question?"
Instead, the MMA community should prioritize and celebrate the incredible athletic achievements and the profound mental fortitude these fighters display. By doing so, we can help shift the narrative away from superficial judgments and towards a deeper appreciation of what it truly means to be an elite combat athlete.