On the latest episode of the popular Cheap Heat podcast, host Peter Rosenberg delivered a blunt rebuke to former WWE superstar Ronda Rousey, challenging her self-assessment as an all-time great in wrestling. Rosenberg’s comments come amid growing public scrutiny surrounding Rousey’s reflections about her WWE tenure and her outspoken criticisms of former peers, particularly Alexa Bliss.

Rosenberg, widely respected for his deep knowledge of professional wrestling, took issue with Rousey’s disparaging remarks about working with Alexa Bliss. According to Rosenberg, Rousey’s attitude suggested that she considered Bliss “beneath her,” which he called an unfortunate display of disrespect toward a top full-time WWE performer. “For her to blatantly criticize the fact that she worked with Alexa Bliss, as if Bliss was somehow beneath her, was yet another example of just Ronda Rousey needing to pry her foot out of her mouth,” Rosenberg said on Cheap Heat[2][5].

While Rosenberg emphasized that his criticism was not personal—he acknowledged that Rousey generally carried herself well during her WWE run—he expressed dissatisfaction with her on-screen character and booking. He noted that despite Rousey’s “realism” and potential in-ring appeal, he never found her WWE persona compelling. Rosenberg also took aim at the star treatment she received, highlighting how Rousey was handed iconic elements such as Rowdy Roddy Piper’s gimmick and a high-profile entrance theme. “She was given all the bells and whistles, everything you could imagine,” Rosenberg added. “And all we hear her do is complain about her time in WWE”[2].

Rousey’s comments taking aim at Bliss came from an interview where she described being booked to face Bliss as “bleeping ridiculous” because Bliss, at the time, was the top merchandise seller among WWE women. Rousey implied that she was undervalued and that the company’s decision-making was baffling. Rosenberg countered that such remarks came off as hypocritical since it was actually Bliss who deserved respect for her drawing power and overall status. He argued that Rousey’s criticism showed a lack of appreciation for the effort and dedication of full-time wrestling performers versus Rousey’s part-time status.

This exchange shines a light on the ongoing debate about Rousey’s legacy in WWE. Entering with immense hype as an MMA legend and mainstream star, Rousey’s transition to professional wrestling was met with high expectations. While she made significant moments—such as a headline WrestleMania match and a Women’s Tag Team Championship reign—the veteran wrestling community remains divided on how to assess her impact fully. Rosenberg’s critique reflects a perspective that values in-ring longevity, character work, and consistent performance, areas where he believes Rousey did not ultimately establish herself as an all-time great[2][3].

According to sources close to WWE, behind the scenes, there is recognition that Rousey’s star power brought valuable attention and crossover appeal. However, insiders also note that her sporadic schedule, quick exit from in-ring competition, and recent public comments have complicated her relationship with parts of the wrestling business. “She was welcomed with open arms and handed massive opportunities, but respect in wrestling also comes from how you engage with the craft and your peers daily,” one backstage source told Fightful. “Complaining publicly about other wrestlers and your own run doesn’t help her cause”[2].

Peter Rosenberg’s remarks on Cheap Heat mark the latest chapter in wrestling’s ongoing reflection about Rousey’s place in the pantheon of women’s wrestling. As the WWE landscape continues to evolve, voices like Rosenberg’s advocate for recognizing not just star power but the hard work, resilience, and respect that underpin genuine greatness in professional wrestling.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching how Rousey responds to this criticism and whether she re-engages with the industry in a way that earns renewed respect. Meanwhile, Rosenberg’s commentary serves as a reminder that in wrestling, legacy is built as much on relationships and character as it is on moments of fame.

This article draws from the latest episode of the Cheap Heat podcast hosted by Peter Rosenberg, coverage on Wrestling News, and insider information shared with Fightful and WWE.com.