Ronda Rousey's Empowering Pep Talk to ‘Facts of Life’ Star

Nick Paschal
·Supervising Producer, Yahoo Entertainment

Battle of the Network Stars returned to TV after more than 30 years, and Facts of Life stars Kim Fields and Lisa Whelchel returned with it. But the battle was a tad more difficult for the ladies this time.

Kim was anxious about sporting a swimsuit on TV for the swimming competition. She said, “Honestly, it’s different doing this as a grown-up and a grown woman than a teenage girl. So there are things that you feel a little more, you know, self-conscious about.” Kim was concerned about what people would say about her, especially on social media. However, coach Ronda Rousey was quick to knock out those fears.

Ronda knocks out fear

Ronda wanted to remind the ladies on her team that “strong is beautiful.” So she told them: “We’re not doing this for anybody else, for positive comments or something … this is about convincing people to better themselves throughout their lives no matter what’s going on, no matter who is watching.”

The Facts of Life star was clearly inspired by Rousey’s speech, saying, “This is why there’s a picture of her in the UFC gym that I go to.” And even though she still had her concerns, Kim said, “And then you go, ‘You know what? I am woman, hear me roar!’ And then you get your black ass in the pool.”

Battle of the Network Stars airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. on ABC. Watch clips and full episodes of Battle of the Network Stars for free on Yahoo View.

Check out what Rousey said about her fighting career on “Ellen”:

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