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Holly Holm inflicts first defeat on Ronda Rousey

Holly Holm inflicts first defeat on Ronda Rousey

The "unthinkable" has happened: Former women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey has been defeated.

In what’s been called "the biggest upset" in Ultimate Fighting Championship history, Rousey was knocked out by 34-year-old Holly Holm in the second round of their title bout in Melbourne on Sunday.

Holm, a former world champion boxer from New Mexico, delivered a powerful kick to Rousey’s head 59 seconds into the second round. The blow sent Rousey toppling to the canvas.

According to the Agence France-Presse, the 28-year-old California native, who had been undefeated through 12 UFC fights prior to Sunday's bout, appeared to be "close to unconsciousness as she hit the deck."

Rousey, a former judo Olympian, was reportedly whisked to the hospital following her knockout loss to receive treatment.

MMA Fighting’s Ariel Helwani said that Rousey had a "busted lip," but "no serious injuries."

"Obviously, she's completely bummed out and depressed," UFC President Dana White told MMA Fighting of the former champ.

Last modified on Wednesday, 18 November 2015 15:48