Rousey 'intertwined' with Tate

Ronda Rousey claimed she is "intertwined" with Miesha Tate, who will replace Cat Zingano in The Ultimate Fighter 18.

Zingano injury presents title opportunity for Tate

The UFC's first ever women's champion Ronda Rousey has claimed that she and bitter rival Miesha Tate are "intertwined in fate like Ali and Frazier" ahead of their stint coaching The Ultimate Fighter 18. Tate has stepped in after Cat Zingano's withdrawal on Tuesday due to a knee injury, meaning Rousey will fight her nemesis for a second time later this year. Zingano defeated Tate in April to earn the chance to coach alongside Rousey but her misfortune may have set up one of The Ultimate Fighter's all-time greatest rivalries. "It's unfortunate for Cat but the UFC is all about opportunities," Tate told UFC.com. On Rousey, who she lost to a year ago, Tate continued: "She's undefeated but as a person I don't think she's quite as stellar." Rousey fired back: "I've always respected Miesha as a fighter. I think she's entirely legit but I don't feel bad about hitting her. "Everyone said an Ultimate Fighter between me and Miesha would be the best. For some reason, I think me and Miesha are intertwined in fate like Ali and Frazier." Season 18 of the UFC's flagship series will include both male and female participants as well as female coaches for the first time. The Ultimate Fighter has historically featured heated moments between the two coaches but Rousey and Tate's animosity will be compelling viewing once season 18 begins in September.
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