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UFC

War of words? White says Holm-Rousey rematch set for July

By FoxSports
Published | Updated
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Holly Holm's manager admitted on Tuesday that UFC officials recently approached him with plans for a rematch with Ronda Rousey at UFC 200 in July, but adding that Holm has other plans.

Later in the afternoon, UFC president Dana White offered up his side of things … and he doesn't sound like he's taking no for an answer.

White told the Los Angeles Times that Holm's night fight will indeed be against Rouse, and added that July 9 has been cleared as the date for the rematch.

"It's Rousey," White told the Times when asked about Holm's next opponent. Holm dealt Rousey her first UFC loss with a second-round knockout at UFC 193 on Nov. 15 in Australia.

That came contradictory to what Holm's manager and promoter Lenny Fresquez told both the Times and the Albuquerque Journal … and he claimed it is because of his concern over Rousey's preparedness.

"I'm not sure Ronda will be ready for a July fight," Fresquez told the Times. "She took a severe beating [in her fight with Holm] and I don't think it's in her best interest to take the next fight so fast. They told me she's been ready and cleared, but ..."

Fresquez told the Journal he instead thinks Holm should fight Miesha Tate in "February or March," then expanded to the Times:

"Holly's used to staying active. We're from the old school and we believe the No. 1 contender is there for a reason. ... [Tate] deserves a shot."

He then conceded, "But it's not for me to decide."

According to the Times, after being told about Fresquez's comments and desire for the earlier Tate match:

"'We're real concerned with his opinion,' White said in a sarcastic tone."

White told the Times he's been in constant contact with Rousey and believes Rousey will be ready for the rematch.

"Ronda is the fiercest competitor I have ever met in my life and she's also very proud," White said. "What made the world love Ronda is that Ronda absolutely 100% knew she was not going to lose. ... People rallied around this powerful female figure.

"Ronda's never lost a fight. She will overcome it and be back."

Rousey was placed on six-month medical suspension after her loss to Holm.