Carmen Electra’s Martial Arts Secret: Sparring With Ronda Rousey

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Carmen Electra is much more than the iconic Baywatch star in the red one-piece we remember. In 2016, the actress shared that martial arts run in her family, revealing that she once sparred with fighter Ronda Rousey at her home a few years ago.

She became a sex symbol playing the role of Lani McKenzie in the television drama series Baywatch.

Tara Leigh Patrick, known professionally as Carmen Electra, as Lani McKenzie in Baywatch: Hawaiian WeddingTara Leigh Patrick, known professionally as Carmen Electra, as Lani McKenzie in Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding

Her first appearance was in Rookie Summer, the first episode of the eighth season that aired on September 22, 1997, when Carmen Electra was 25 years old. Born on April 20, 1972, in Sharonville, Ohio, she turned 26 on April 20, 1998.

Carmen Electra’s final Baywatch appearance was in the 2003 American made-for-television action-adventure film Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding.

Carmen Electra as lifeguard Lani McKenzie in her iconic red swimsuit from Baywatch, embodying the show's classic lookCarmen Electra as lifeguard Lani McKenzie in her iconic red swimsuit from Baywatch, embodying the show’s classic look

The Singled Out host posed for the cameras at the 2016 Mixed Martial Arts Awards, where she presented the award for Best Female Fighter with MMA champion Dom Cruz.

Carmen Electra wears her hair down at the 8th annual World Mixed Martial Arts AwardsCarmen Electra wears her hair down at the 8th annual World Mixed Martial Arts Awards held on February 5, 2016, at The Palazzo in Las Vegas (Credit: DJDM / Judy Eddy / WENN)

Carmen wore a daring, sheer glitter bodycon dress from House of CB that subtly revealed her minimal undergarments beneath—certainly a bold choice, but nothing unfamiliar from the confident star.

Carmen Electra wears a sheer glittery House of CB dress on the red carpetCarmen Electra wears a sheer glittery House of CB dress on the red carpet

The bombshell paired her dress with Christian Louboutin’s “Lady Peep” pumps (we’re sure the pun was not intended) in black patent.

Carmen revealed that her mother was a black belt holder in jiu-jitsu and that she had wanted to learn martial arts as a young girl.

Carmen Electra's feet in platform Christian Louboutin shoesCarmen Electra’s feet in platform Christian Louboutin shoes

However, her mother encouraged her to become a dancer instead — but that didn’t stop her from learning a move or two.

Carmen Electra shows off her legs and backside in a House of CB dress and Christian Louboutin platformsCarmen Electra shows off her legs and backside in a House of CB dress and Christian Louboutin platforms

You can order the Christian Louboutin “Lady Peep” pumps in patent leather at Mytheresa and Nordstrom.

Christian Louboutin 'Lady Peep' Patent Red Sole Pump in BlackChristian Louboutin ‘Lady Peep’ Patent Red Sole Pump in Black, $945

Christian Louboutin 'Lady Peep' Patent Red Sole Pump in BlueChristian Louboutin ‘Lady Peep’ Patent Red Sole Pump in Blue, $945

Christian Louboutin 'Lady Peep' Patent Red Sole Pump in NudeChristian Louboutin ‘Lady Peep’ Patent Red Sole Pump in Nude, $945

Carmen Electra’s affinity for Christian Louboutin heels has consistently highlighted her fashion journey. From her striking appearance in a red strapless Rafael Cennamo gown paired with ‘Lady Peep’ pumps at the 2013 Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards viewing party to her chic ensemble featuring a color-block dress and pointy red bottoms at the Chinese Laundry Shoe Launch Party in 2012, her style choices continue to inspire.

Explore our other articles on Your Next Shoes for more insights into Carmen Electra’s fashion evolution and her love for designer footwear.