Ronda Rousey’s recent apology for briefly sharing a conspiracy video related to Sandy Hook offers several important takeaways.

One key lesson is that it’s never too late to admit wrongdoing and accept responsibility. In a post made on Thursday night on X, the former UFC champion expressed regret over an action she took 11 years ago, which feels like a significant time given the rapid pace of news today.

This apology came on the heels of a tumultuous Ask Me Anything session on Reddit, where Rousey faced numerous inquiries about her sharing of a video that questioned the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook, which resulted in the deaths of 20 young children and six teachers, shattering the illusion of safe spaces in America amid gun violence.

Despite when this apology was issued, Rousey admitted that she has regretted the decision for years. She mentioned penning apologies repeatedly, including attempts to insert one into her previous book, but ultimately refrained from publishing it due to fear, shame, and concerns it might lead others into conspiracy theories, as well as considerations for her own image.

Regardless of her reasons, Rousey has now realized they did not justify not making amends for the harm caused.

“I convinced myself that apologizing would just reopen the wound for no reason other than my selfish desire to feel better,” Rousey explained, acknowledging that she feared she might cause even more pain to those affected while potentially drawing others into conspiracy theories.

“I regret that this acknowledgment is coming 11 years late, but to those impacted by the Sandy Hook tragedy, I genuinely apologize from the depths of my heart for the pain I have caused. I can hardly fathom the agony you’ve faced, and I am deeply remorseful and ashamed of my actions which contributed to it. I have regretted it every day since and will continue to do so,” Rousey expressed emphatically.

Another critical lesson is that apologies are necessary even if no one else is aware of your wrongdoing.

Rousey noted that she quickly recognized her error after posting the video and removed it. Remarkably, despite being at the peak of her fame, her actions mostly flew under the radar, and while MMA fans may have noticed, the wider public was largely unaware.

A wrongdoing remains a wrongdoing, whether it’s recognized by the entire world or just known to you.

“I should have experienced consequences,” Rousey admitted. “I would have deserved them. I still do.”

The final and most significant lesson from Rousey’s apology is her cautionary advice.

There have always been individuals misled into believing falsehoods, and sensational headlines in tabloid newspapers aren’t there for decoration. However, things have worsened over the last fifteen years, with malicious actors taking advantage of people’s fears and ignorance, sometimes exploiting hate.

This leads to real-life instances of harm, such as the incident where a pizza restaurant in Washington, D.C., was attacked, people consuming unproven medications for COVID, and others downplaying the seriousness of a pandemic that claimed millions of lives. These situations include significant events like the U.S. Capitol riot and misinformation spread by prominent figures.

A mixed martial arts star sharing a video that puts the legitimacy of the painful experiences of grieving parents and the tragedy itself into question is a serious matter.

However, Rousey clarified that engaging with conspiracy theories leads you further away from the truth.

“To anyone who has fallen into the trap of conspiracies,” Rousey stated, “it doesn’t make you unique or independent. Instead, you’re not doing thorough research by entertaining every absurd idea. These notions will only worsen your feelings of powerlessness, fear, and loneliness. You’re merely harming yourself and others.”

“No matter how many times you’ve strayed from the path, it’s never too late to turn back,” she advised.

It’s always possible to seek the truth or offer an apology.