Filipino ring girl Red Dela Cruz recently shared a new image on her social media, drawing attention for a striking look that blends a black top with sheer black pants. The post adds to the ongoing conversation around ring girls and their role in combat sports, a topic that often sparks debate among fans and pundits alike. Dela Cruz has built a diverse public profile through modeling shoots and appearances that extend beyond the ring, contributing to the visibility of women associated with martial arts events. Her career in the sport itself began with a debut in the Ultimate Fighting Championship in 2015, a milestone that followed her earlier work with Pacific Xtreme Combat, where she first showcased her presence in the world of fight promotion. Over the years, she has broadened her portfolio with appearances in well-known men’s magazines, including FHM and Red Magazine, and she received recognition in 2013 when she ranked 52nd in a list of the Philippines’ 100 sexiest women, highlighting her crossover appeal beyond the competition floor. The public dialogue around ring girls has included notable opinions from figures such as Khabib Nurmagomedov, who has publicly questioned the value these performers add to martial arts. In expressing his perspective, Nurmagomedov described ring girls as unnecessary for the sport, emphasizing that some view their presence as unrelated to competition results and progress. He clarified his stance by sharing his personal opinion and noting that his remarks were not meant to offend any individuals involved. The broader discussion that accompanies such statements often touches on the history and evolution of combat sports, inviting observers to consider what contributes to the audience experience, how media coverage shapes perceptions, and whether ceremonial roles align with the competitive nature of events. Reflecting on these arguments, many commentators suggest that historical context matters when evaluating the significance of entertainment elements in martial arts, while others argue that these roles help create a spectacle that resonates with fans and spectators. The narrative around ring girls, history, and media representation continues to evolve as promotions seek to balance athletic focus with crowd engagement, and as athletes, promoters, and fans respond to changing cultural expectations. In another cultural note, a separate appearance involved a former American gymnast demonstrating athleticism in a beach setting, illustrating how diverse displays of physical prowess can intersect with sports entertainment and public interest, often fueling discussion about the portrayal of female athletes in different venues and media outlets.
