The Women in Sport Podcast: Ruth ''Ruthless'' Nelson
Fri Jan 23 2026
In this Women in Sport podcast, Ruth Nelson, Emma and Mitchell discuss:
Ruth’s remarkable path into combat sports, from taking up kickboxing as a young mother to becoming one of Britain’s most formidable female fighters.
The evolution of women’s participation in combat sports, including the growing visibility of female athletes and the influence of icons such as Ronda Rousey.
The realities of competing at elite level while working full‑time, challenging traditional ideas of what it means to be a “professional athlete”.
Ruth's experience training with male‑dominated MMA environments, building confidence, and forming lasting relationships within the martial arts community.
The importance of representation and role models, including the impact of Ruth’s own achievements on younger athletes — and even her own son, who later competed for Team GB.
Barriers faced by women in combat sports, from gender bias and under‑recognition to physiological challenges such as training and competing while managing the menstrual cycle.
Ruth's involvement in the feature film Tramp, portraying a fighter navigating motherhood, physical change and resilience — and how the story reflects the real lived experiences of many women in sport.
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In this Women in Sport podcast, Ruth Nelson, Emma and Mitchell discuss: Ruth’s remarkable path into combat sports, from taking up kickboxing as a young mother to becoming one of Britain’s most formidable female fighters. The evolution of women’s participation in combat sports, including the growing visibility of female athletes and the influence of icons such as Ronda Rousey. The realities of competing at elite level while working full‑time, challenging traditional ideas of what it means to be a “professional athlete”. Ruth's experience training with male‑dominated MMA environments, building confidence, and forming lasting relationships within the martial arts community. The importance of representation and role models, including the impact of Ruth’s own achievements on younger athletes — and even her own son, who later competed for Team GB. Barriers faced by women in combat sports, from gender bias and under‑recognition to physiological challenges such as training and competing while managing the menstrual cycle. Ruth's involvement in the feature film Tramp, portraying a fighter navigating motherhood, physical change and resilience — and how the story reflects the real lived experiences of many women in sport.