With the upcoming release of ‘Pokémon Champions’ on April 8, a captivating question re-emerges for MMA enthusiasts: Who truly stands as the UFC’s most dedicated Pokémon fan, and can anyone surpass Ronda Rousey’s well-known passion for the franchise?
Pokémon Champions
‘Pokémon Champions,’ a new battle-centric game, is set to launch on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 on April 8, 2026. Adopting a free-to-start model akin to ‘Pokémon Unite,’ it emphasizes core mechanics such as elemental types, unique Abilities, and strategic teams of six Pokémon for both Single and Double Battles. The game will feature ranked, casual, and private online modes, complemented by optional paid bundles and a premium battle pass. A visual upgrade for Switch 2 is planned for launch day, positioning ‘Champions’ as the primary platform for official Video Game Championships in 2026.
This strategy-focused title employs the familiar turn-based Pokémon battle system, allowing players to build teams and direct commands in Single and Double Battles, mirroring the experience of main series RPGs. Its core lies in online player-versus-player competition, offering Ranked, Casual, and Private Battle options, distinguishing it from arcade-style fighting games. Players can acquire or import Pokémon, customize their stats and moves using in-game currency, and compete on leaderboards, including formats tied to the official Pokémon World Championships.
Ronda Rousey’s Lifelong Fandom
Ronda Rousey’s connection to Pokémon is profound, extending far beyond casual interest, making her a top contender for the title of the UFC’s most ardent fan. During a 2015 Reddit AMA, she disclosed that in her teenage years, she actively moderated a ‘Pokémon Stadium 2’ forum on GameTalk, operating under the username ‘mew182,’ and openly identifying as a ‘big-time Pokémon nerd.’ Her favorite Pokémon is Mew, and she has engaged in intricate discussions about hypothetical battles, such as choosing to confront a single Mew-sized Mewtwo over one hundred Mewtwo-sized Mews, deeming the former the more strategic opponent. Rousey has also playfully speculated about applying her signature armbar move to Pokémon like Throh, known as the Judo Pokémon, illustrating a deep understanding and personal connection to the franchise’s mechanics, types, and creatures.
Brandon Moreno and the Collector Wave
Brandon Moreno, Mexico’s former flyweight champion, represents the contemporary Pokémon presence within MMA, primarily through his extensive collection of cards and memorabilia. In various podcast interviews, Moreno has shared details about his serious dedication to acquiring and trading Pokémon cards, positioning himself as a passionate collector when not competing. His leisure time is often dedicated to seeking out rare cards and discussing his cherished finds, which distinguishes his fandom from Rousey’s. Moreno’s engagement is centered on the tangible aspects of the franchise, particularly the trading card game, rather than the online forum culture.
Nevertheless, Rousey’s devotion remains distinct: she managed a Pokémon forum during her teenage years, adopted a Pokémon-inspired username, engaged in detailed discussions about specific creatures and theoretical battles, and even years later, is still widely recognized for her ‘Pokémon-obsessed’ nature. While Moreno’s card collecting and media visibility position him as a prominent contemporary figure, the historical depth and early internet origins of Rousey’s fandom provide her with a more compelling claim to be considered the UFC’s ultimate Pokémon enthusiast. As ‘Pokémon Champions’ prepares to revolutionize competitive battling, the strong connection between the Pokémon franchise and MMA culture is poised for further expansion.
