SI cover: The Unbreakable Ronda Rousey

MMA fighter Ronda Rousey is on this week's cover of Sports Illustrated.

Author:
Scooby Axson
Publish date:
May 11, 2015

UFC bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey has been everywhere in 2015, and now she can add the cover of Sports Illustrated to that list.

The 28-year-old stands atop SI.com's latest pound for pound rankings, an honor that can point to the fact that she has won her last two fights by a combined 30 seconds. First there was her 16-second victory over Alexis Davis by KO in July 2014, prompting UFC president Dana White to say Rousey doesn't earn the respect she deserves because of her gender.

In February, Rousey became the first MMA fighter to appear in the SI Swimsuit Issue. Later that month, she continued her reign with a 14-second armbar takedown of Cat Zingano, the fastest finish of any kind in a UFC championship fight (you can even watch it in claymation). It upped Rousey's career MMA record to 11–0 and marked the ninth time she has won by armbar.

Since the swift victory over Zingano, Rousey has been on a bit of a whirlwind tour as her fame only continues to grow. She stopped by The Tonight Showand demonstrated her famous armbar move on an unlucky yet thoroughly impressed Jimmy Fallon.

She was even challenged by a Houston Texans cheerleader who was a state champion boxer and thinks she has a plan that could stymie Rousey. And of course there was Rousey's memorable appearance at WresleMania 31, when she teamed up with The Rock.

But Rousey knows that with fame, there comes a price.

She tried to use an alter ego - Brynn Campbell - on the dating app Tinder, to no avail. Instead, she says she mostly hangs out with her dog Mochi.

“S---,” she says, “the only person I'm making out with is my dog.”

Rousey says she has the support of her family and friends to help navigate her through the rough waters of being a celebrity.

Classic Photos of Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey :: Jan. 23, 2016

Dana Edelson/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Here are some candid and not so candid photos of UFC fighter Ronda Rousey, who hosted Saturday Night Live on Jan. 23. In this sketch she appears with Taran Killam as Dan.

Ronda Rousey :: Jan. 23, 2016

Kenan Thompson and Ronda Rousey during the City Council sketch on the Jan. 23, 2016 episode of Saturday Night Live.

Ronda Rousey :: Jan. 23, 2016

Ronda Rousey with SNL participants (from left) Jon Rudnitsky, Bobby Moynihan, Selena Gomez, Rousey, Aidy Bryant, Vanessa Bayer and Jay Pharoah during the monologue.

Ronda Rousey :: January 2016

Singer Selena Gomez, Ronda Rousey, and Cecily Strong are caught on stage in a practice for the Jan. 23 Saturday Night Live show.

Ronda Rousey :: Nov. 14, 2015

Ronda Rousey is attended to after suffering a second-round knockout at the hands of Holly Holm at UFC 193 in Australia.

Ronda Rousey :: Oct. 27, 2015

Ronda Rousey responds to questions during media day in Glendale, Calif., ahead of her showdown with Holly Holm.

Ronda Rousey :: Oct. 27, 2015

Rousey hosts Media Day ahead of her Nov. 14 fight in Australia.

Ronda Rousey :: Oct. 27, 2015

Brandon Magnus/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey spars with a partner during a media training session.

Ronda Rousey :: Oct. 16, 2015

Joshua Blanchard /Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Rousey poses in front of a mural created in her honor in Venice, Calif.

Ronda Rousey :: Oct. 6, 2015

Mike Stobe/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey poses for a photo at the London NYC hotel ahead of UFC 193.

Ronda Rousey :: Sept. 17, 2015

Brendon Thorne/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey poses with a fans during a UFC 193 Sydney fan event.

Ronda Rousey :: Sept. 16, 2015

Michael Dodge/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey and her November opponent, Holly Holm, take centre stage during a UFC 193 media event.

Ronda Rousey :: Sept. 16, 2015

Ronda Rousey takes selfies with fans during a UFC 193 media event at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, Australia.

Ronda Rousey :: Sept. 16, 2015

Ronda Rousey arrives during a UFC 193 media event at Etihad Stadium.

Ronda Rousey :: Aug. 4, 2015

Buda Mendes/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey and her mother, AnnMaria De Mars (3rd from right), present a championship belt to a judo school and social project owned by Olympic bronze medalist Flavio Canto in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Ronda Rousey :: Aug. 2, 2015

Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey after her 34-second victory over Bethe Correia.

Ronda Rousey :: Aug. 1, 2015

Ronda Rousey and Bethe Correia at their weigh in.

Ronda Rousey :: July 15, 2015

Ronda Rousey accepts the Best Female Athlete award during The 2015 ESPYS at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: July 15, 2015

Robert Laberge/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Former boxer Mike Tyson meets Ronda Rousey during a media training session at the Glendale Fight Club.

Ronda Rousey :: April 27, 2015

Ronda Rousey poses during a photo shoot for SI in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: April 27, 2015

Ronda Rousey trains during a photo shoot for SI in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: April 27, 2015

Ronda Rousey poses during a photo shoot for SI in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: March 23, 2015

Ronda Rousey talks with reporters after meeting with New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and state leaders urging them to join the 49 other states in legalizing mixed martial arts.

Ronda Rousey :: April 4, 2015

Ronda Rousey attends an NHL game between the Los Angeles Kings and the Colorado Avalanche.

Ronda Rousey :: April 1, 2015

Rousey arrives at the 'Furious 7' Los Angeles Premiere at TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX in Hollywood.

Ronda Rousey and the Rock :: March 29, 2015

Ronda Rousey and the Rock at WrestleMania 31.

Ronda Rousey :: March 29, 2015

Ronda Rousey and Stephanie McMahon at WrestleMania 31 in Santa Clara

Ronda Rousey :: March 29, 2015

Ronda Rousey and Stephanie McMahon at WrestleMania 31 in Santa Clara.

Ronda Rousey :: March 26, 2015

Ronda Rousey and Robin Roberts on the "Good Morning America" set.

Ronda Rousey :: March 24, 2015

Theo Wargo/NBC/Getty Images for "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon"

Ronda Rousey during her visit to "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" at Rockefeller Center in New York City.

Ronda Rousey :: March 24, 2015

Ronda Rousey shows Jimmy Fallon what an armbar is during her visit to the "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon."

Ronda Rousey :: March 20, 2015

Ronda Rousey and Bethe Correia of Brazil face off during the 189 World Media Tour Launch press conference in Rio de Janeiro.

Ronda Rousey and Bethe Correia:: March 20, 2015

Ronda Rousey and Bethe Correia of Brazil pose for the media during the 189 World Media Tour Launch press conference in Rio de Janeiro.

Ronda Rousey :: March 20, 2015

Alexandre Loureiro/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey with fans in Brazil during the the UFC 189 World Media Tour Launch press conference

Ronda Rousey :: March 20, 2015

Ronda Rousey poses for the media during the UFC 189 World Media Tour Launch press conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Ronda Rousey :: March 20, 2015

Ronda Rousey looks on during the UFC 189 World Media Tour Launch press conference in Rio de Janeiro.

Ronda Rousey :: March 14, 2015

Ronda Rousey speaks during a South by Southwest Sports panel at the Austin Convention Center in Texas.

Ronda Rousey :: March 10, 2015

Ronda Rousey is seen with Mario Lopez of Extra at Universal CityWalk in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: February 2015

Bret Hartman/For The Washington Post via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey speaks to members of the media at the Glendale Fighting Club ahead of her fight against Cat Zingano.

Ronda Rousey and Cat Zingano :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey and Cat Zingano face off during the UFC 184 Ultimate Media Day in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: February 2015

Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey warms up in the locker room before her bout against Cat Zingano in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: February 2015

Jeff Gross/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey prepares to enter the Octagon in her bantamweight championship bout against Cat Zingano in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey gets ready to fight Cat Zingano at UFC 184.

Ronda Rousey :: February 2015

Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey enters the Octagon in her bantamweight championship bout against Cat Zingano in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey and Cat Zingano :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey grapples with Cat Zingano during UFC 184. Rousey won after Zingano tapped out 14 seconds into the bout.

Ronda Rousey and Cat Zingano :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey grapples with Cat Zingano during UFC 184. Rousey won after Zingano tapped out 14 seconds into the bout.

Ronda Rousey and Cat Zingano :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey grapples with Cat Zingano during UFC 184. Rousey won after Zingano tapped out 14 seconds into the bout.

Ronda Rousey and Cat Zingano :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey gets into position to put an armbar on Cat Zingano during UFC 184.

Ronda Rousey and Cat Zingano :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey puts the finishing touches on Cat Zingano to remain undefeated.

Ronda Rousey :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey celebrates her victory over Cat Zingano.

Ronda Rousey :: February 2015

Ronda Rousey consoles Cat Zingano after their bout.

Ronda Rousey :: December 2014

Ronda Rousey attends Reebok and UFC Long-Term Partnership Announcement at Industria Studios in New York City.

Ronda Rousey :: November 2014

Ronda Rousey is seen at 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: November 2014

Ronda Rousey is seen at 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: November 2014

Elliott Howard/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey arrives at the UFC Time Is Now press conference in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey :: October 2014

Ronda Rousey sighting in West Hollywood, Calif.

Ronda Rousey :: September 2014

Ronda Rousey attends FOX Sports 1's "The Ultimate Fighter" Season Premiere Party in Hollywood.

Ronda Rousey :: August 2014

Ronda Rousey arrives at the Los Angeles premiere of "The Expendables 3" in Hollywood.

Ronda Rousey :: July 2014

Ronda Rousey smiles at a weigh-in for the UFC 175 event at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey and Alexis Davis: July 2014

Ronda Rousey faces off with Alexis Davis during the UFC 175 weigh-in inside the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey :: July 2014

Ronda Rousey takes down Alexis Davis during their women's mixed martial arts bantamweight title bout at UFC 175 in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey :: May 2014

Kelsey Grammer, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Ronda Rousey and Sylvester Stallone pose during a photocall for "The Expendables 3" at the 67th edition of the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, southern France.

Ronda Rousey :: May 2014

Arnold Schwarzenegger kisses Ronda Rousey during a photocall for the film "The Expendables 3" at the 67th edition of the Cannes Film Festival.

Ronda Rousey :: May 2014

David M. Benett/Getty Images for Millennium Films

Ronda Rousey attends a photocall for "The Expendables 3" at the Carlton Hotel in Cannes, France.

Ronda Rousey and Kellan Lutz :: May 2014

Actor Kellan Lutz and Ronda Rousey arrive for the screening of The Homesman at the 67th international film festival.

Ronda Rousey :: May 2014

Ronda Rousey attends "The Homesman" Premiere at the 67th Annual Cannes Film Festival inFrance.

Ronda Rousey :: May 2014

Ronda Rousey hosts #TheLinkParty at the IceLink Boutique West Hollywood benefiting The Special Needs Network.

Ronda Rousey :: April 2014

Ronda Rousey is seen filming a scene for the "Entourage" movie in Beverly Hills in Los Angeles

Ronda Rousey :: February 2014

Ronda Rousey knees Sara McMann in their bantamweight championship bout during UFC 170 in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey :: February 2014

Ronda Rousey at an open training session for fans and media in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey and Jimmy Kimmel:: December 2013

Ronda Rousey made an appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" in early December 2013.

Ronda Rousey :: December 2013

Ronda Rousey poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate :: December 2013

Donald Miralle/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey attempts to submit Miesha Tate in their UFC women's bantamweight championship bout during UFC 168 in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey and Josh Thomson :: July 2013

Al Powers/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Rousey and UFC lightweight Josh Thomson pose for a photo during the UFC Fan Party in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey :: July 2013

Clint Jenkins/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ronda Rousey signs an autograph during the UFC Fan Expo Las Vegas 2013 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas,.

Ronda Rousey :: March 2013

Ronda Rousey attends the Fox Sports Media Group Upfront after party at Roseland Ballroom in New York City.

Ronda Rousey and Liz Carmouche :: February 2013

Ronda Rousey eventually got Liz Carmouche off her back and improved her record to 7-0 with the victory.

Ronda Rousey and Liz Carmouche :: February 2013

Ronda Rousey found herself in trouble early against Liz Carmouche, but withstood the challenge to win in the first round.

Ronda Rousey :: December 2012

Ronda Rousey shows off her UFC bantamweight championship belt during a news conference in Seattle, Wash. UFC president Dana White handed out the belt, saying the former Strikeforce title-holder will make her UFC debut on Feb. 23 against Liz Carmouche.

Ronda Rousey :: October 2012

Ronda Rousey during training session with coach Edmond Tarverdyan at Glendale Fighting Club.

Ronda Rousey and Dana White: September 2012

Rousey poses with Dana White at the Sons of Anarchy season 5 premiere screening in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey and Sarah Kaufman :: August 2012

Ronda Rousey secures an arm bar submission against Sarah Kaufman during their Strikeforce bout.

Ronda Rousey :: August 2012

Ronda Rousey reacts after defeating Sarah Kaufman by submission during the Strikeforce event in San Diego on Aug. 18.

Ronda Rousey :: July 2012

Ronda Rousey attends ESPN Magazine's 4th Annual Body Issue celebration at Belasco Theatre on July 10, 2012 in Los Angeles.

Ronda Rousey :: March 2012

:: David Dermer/Diamond Images/Getty Images

Ronda Rousey during the weigh-in for her bout against Meisha Tate.

Ronda Rousey :: March 2012

Ronda Rousey walks to the cage before her bantamweight bout against Tate in March. Rousey won via an armbar submission.

Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate :: March 2012

Ronda Rousey reacts after submitting Meisha Tate during their bantamweight bout in Columbus, Ohio.

Ronda Rousey :: March 2012

Rousey takes questions from the media after her victory over Meisha Tate.

Ronda Rousey :: October 2012

Ronda Rousey during a photo shoot for SI at the Glendale Fighting Club in California.

Ronda Rousey :: October 2012

Ronda Rousey during a photo shoot for SI at the Glendale Fighting Club in California.

Ronda Rousey :: October 2012

Ronda Rousey during a photo shoot for SI at the Glendale Fighting Club in California.

Ronda Rousey :: October 2012

Ronda Rousey during a photo shoot for SI at the Glendale Fighting Club in California.

Ronda Rousey :: October 2012

Ronda Rousey catches her breath after a workout.

Ronda Rousey :: October 2012

Ronda Rousey during a photo shoot for SI at the Glendale Fighting Club in California.

Ronda Rousey :: November 2011

Ronda Rousey attends the UFC On FOX: Live Heavyweight Championship in Anaheim, Calif.

Ronda Rousey and Sarah D'Alelio :: August 2011

Kari Hubert/Forza LLC/Forza LLC via Getty Images

Rousey and Sarah D'Alelio pose at the weigh-in before their Strikeforce match in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey :: August 2011

Ronda Rousey during the Strikeforce Challengers 4 at The Pearl at The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.

Ronda Rousey and Sarah D'Alelio :: August 2011

Sarah D'Alelio and Ronda Rousey during the Strikeforce Challengers 4 at The Pearl at The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. Rousey would win the bout via tapout in the first round.

Ronda Rousey :: April 2008

Michael O'Neill/Sports Illustrated/Contour by Getty Images

Ronda Rousey (far left) in a Summer Olympics preview portrait with Rau'shee Warren (boxing), Demetrius Andrade (boxing), Marci Van Dusen (freestyle wrestling), and Sarah Hammer (cycling).

Ronda Rousey and Valerie Gotay: April 2008

Ronda Rousey throws Valerie Gotay over her shoulder as she poses for a portrait during the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Media Summitt in Chicago.

Ronda Rousey and Annett Boehm: August 2008

Rousey and Germany's Annett Boehm compete in the 70 kg judo bronze-medal match at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Rousey would win the match and the bronze.

Ronda Rousey :: August 2008

Rousey stands on the podium after winning bronze at the 2008 Olympics.

Ronda Rousey: 2007

A happy Ronda Rousey after she won the 70Kg Judo final in the 2007 XV Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Ronda Rousey :: April 2006

Ronda Rousey with her gold medal at the Fighting Films Birmingham Women's World Cup at the National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England.

Ronda Rousey :: August 2004

Claudia Heill from Austria fights Ronda Rousey during the Judo half-middle weight (-63kg) event at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.

Ronda Rousey :: June 2004

Ronda Rousey and Anastasia Krivosta compete in their 63 kg. match during the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in Judo at the San Jose State University Event Center in California. Rousey won the match to move on in the competition.

"What I realized is once you become socially unhealthy, it’s impossible to stay psychologically healthy,” she says. “[Celebrities] get surrounded by people that benefit off of them in some way. Every single person that they see in the day either gains financial stability, status, something from that person. And so the people around you reflect reality back to you."

When she's not appearing in Fast and Furious 7 or the upcoming Entourage, Rousey even found time to write a book.

The book, entitled My Fight/Your Fight, hits shelves Tuesday and recounts career moments such as her one-armed judo victory at the 2007 World Championships.

Could Rousey be on the way to retiring from the MMA? Only time will tell. “The shorter my fights are, the longer I can fight.” Rousey says...."I want to stop before it really erodes me.”

For more on Rousey, check out L. Jon Wertheim's story in this week's Sports Illustrated (subscribe here).

Also in this issue: More on the Deflategate fallout, and features on Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin, the new look San Diego Padres and the 1985 NBA draft.

Subscribers and newsstands not in Michigan, North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Eastern Missouri will receive this cover.

Not in the area to buy the regional or national issue? Buy single issues here.

GALLERY: 2015 Sports Illustrated Covers

2015 Sports Illustrated Covers

Will Smith

December 21, 2015 | This week’s cover of Sports Illustrated features actor Will Smith ahead of the Christmas Day release of the movie Concussion.

Serena Williams

December 21, 2015 | Serena Williams is Sports Illustrated's 2015 Sportsperson of the Year.

Deshaun Watson

December 14, 2015 | Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson, one of the finalists for the Heisman Trophy, is featured on the College Football Playoff preview issue of Sports Illustrated.

Brock Osweiler

December 7, 2015 | Two games after replacing the injured Peyton Manning as Denver's quarterback, Brock Osweiler lands on a regional cover of SI on the strength of victories over Chicago and undefeated New England.

LeBron James

December 7, 2015 | LeBron James appears on yet another cover of SI, this time with an exclusive interview on what the past 16 months have been like since his return to Cleveland and the urgency he feels to win another title.

Cam Newton

November 30, 2015 | Quarterback Cam Newton and the 10–0 Carolina Panthers are featured on this week’s national cover of SI. Carolina has been led in the quest to remain undefeated by Newton, who has generated controversy with his on-field antics.

Iowa Hawkeyes

2015-1130-Iowa-Raucous-X160163_TK1_1211-rawcovfinal.jpg — Jeff Haynes for Sports Illustrated

November 30, 2015 | Iowa football, which shares the Panthers’ undefeated record, is featured on the regional cover delivered to the following locations: Missouri, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.

Jeff Gordon

November 23, 2015 | Fourteen years after he won his fourth Cup title, Jeff Gordon is in NASCAR's final four with a shot at one more championship. That earned him a spot on this week's cover of SI.

Todd Gurley

November 23, 2015 | It's not hard to imagine all the rushing records falling to St. Louis Rams rookie Todd Gurley, who appears on a regional cover of this week's SI.

Michael Phelps

November 16, 2015 | A year ago the best swimmer in Olympic history was lost. Now, after coming to terms with himself, the best might lie ahead for Michael Phelps, who appears on this week's SI cover.

Clemson: Deshaun Watson

November 16, 2015 | Regional Cover: When not coining acronyms, Dabo Swinney is building the nation's #1 team, which is why Clemson is on the cover of the mid-November issue of SI.

Kansas City Royals

November 9, 2015 | After winning their first World Series title since 1985, the Kansas City Royals are featured on this week’s cover of Sports Illustrated.

Daniel Murphy

November 2, 2015 | New York Mets second baseman Daniel Murphy, the NLCS MVP who helped his team reach the World Series, is on this week's cover of Sports Illustrated. Murphy hit an astronomical .421 with a 1.026 slugging percentage in the first two rounds of the playoffs, thanks to his seven home runs, six of which he hit in consecutive games.

Lorenzo Cain

November 2, 2015 | With the Kansas City Royals back in the World Series, centerfielder Lorenzo Cain appears on a regional issue of Sports Illustrated. Cain was the 2014 ALCS MVP and hit .300 in this year’s ALCS as the Royals peppered the Toronto Blue Jays with hits to score 38 runs and earn a ticket to baseball’s finale.

Karl-Anthony Towns with Kevin Garnett

October 26, 2015 | Four NBA teams are featured on the cover of this week’s NBA Preview issue of Sports Illustrated, which takes a look at how each team’s superstars will act as mentors to their next wave of stars, including Minnesota's Karl-Anthony Towns and Kevin Garnett (pictured at right).

LaMarcus Aldridge and Tim Duncan

October 26, 2015 | Four NBA teams are featured on the cover of this week’s NBA Preview issue of Sports Illustrated, which takes a look at how each team’s superstars will act as mentors to their next wave of stars, including LaMarcus Aldridge and Tim Duncan (pictured at right).

D’Angelo Russell and Kobe Bryant

Andrew D. Bernstein for Sports Illustrated

October 26, 2015 | Four NBA teams are featured on the cover of this week’s NBA Preview issue of Sports Illustrated, which takes a look at how each team’s superstars will act as mentors to their next wave of stars, including Kobe Bryant and D'Angelo Russell (pictured at right).

Justise Winslow and Dwyane Wade

Jeffery A. Salter for Sports Illustrated

October 26, 2015 | Four NBA teams are featured on the cover of this week’s NBA Preview issue of Sports Illustrated, which takes a look at how each team’s superstars will act as mentors to their next wave of stars,including Dwyane Wade and Justice Winslow (pictured at right).

Leonard Fournette

October 19, 2015 | This week’s cover of Sports Illustrated features LSU sophomore running back Leonard Fournette, who has led his Tigers to a 5–0 record and a No. 6 national ranking.

Toronto Blue Jays

October 12, 2015 | The Toronto Blue Jays are playoff-bound for the first time since winning the 1993 World Series and this week's SI cover features designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, pitcher David Price, catcher Russell Martin, rightfielder Jose Bautista, third baseman Josh Donaldson and manager John Gibbons.

Muhammad Ali

October 5, 2015 | Muhammad Ali is honored on the cover this week to celebrate the magazine’s Sportsman Legacy Award. The Legacy Award was created in 2008 to honor former athletes and sports figures who embody ideals of leadership, sportsmanship and philanthropy as vehicles for changing the world. The renaming of the award was announced earlier this week, and Ali will be recognized at a dedication ceremony at the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Ky., on Thursday. That date, Oct. 1., also marks the 40th anniversary of Ali’s legendary “Thrilla in Manila” defeat of Joe Frazier.

Trae Elston

September 28, 2015 | After a 3–0 start to their season, the Ole Miss Rebels and defensive back Trae Elston are featured in a Sports Illustrated cover story by Andy Staples. In wins over UT Martin, Fresno State and Alabama, Elston, a senior, logged a team-leading three interceptions for 159 yards and two touchdowns with 12 total tackles.

Aaron Rodgers

September 21, 2015 | As Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers prepares for a season without his top receiver, the reigning NFL MVP is featured on a regional cover. Rodgers completed 18 of 23 passes for 189 yards and three touchdowns in Sunday’s season opening win over the Chicago Bears.

Marcus Mariota

September 21, 2015 | Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota is also featured on a regional cover. Mariota completed 13 of 16 passes for 209 yards and four touchdowns in his debut, recording a perfect 158.3 passer rating in the team's 42-14 victory over the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Tom Brady

Illustration by WM J. Hennessy Jr., CourtroomArt.com for Sports Illustrated

September 14, 2015 | The New England Patriots appear on this week's cover of Sports Illustrated, with S.L. Price analyzing the Deflategate court ruling and three investigative reports writing about other teams' distrust of the Patriots.

Cody Kessler

September 14, 2015 | Cody Kessler of USC is on a regional cover this week.

Odell Beckham Jr.

September 7, 2015 | New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. headlines a list of five players featured on regional covers of the NFL Preview issue.

Lavonte David

September 7, 2015 | Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David headlines a list of five players featured on regional covers of the NFL Preview issue.

Russell Wilson

September 7, 2015 | Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson headlines a list of five players featured on regional covers of the NFL Preview issue.

J.J. Watt

September 7, 2015 | Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt headlines a list of five players featured on regional covers of the NFL Preview issue.

Matt Forte

September 7, 2015 | Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte headlines a list of five players featured on regional covers of the NFL Preview issue.

Serena Williams

August 31, 2015 | Chasing history at the U.S. Open, Serena Williams is featured on this week's SI cover.

Chicago Cubs

August 31, 2015 | Cubs' resurgence, Wrigley optimism featured on this week's regional SI cover.

Cardinals Rule

August 24, 2015 | Ben Reiter examines the greatness of the St. Louis Cardinals, who have overcome injuries to stars like Adam Wainwright on their way to Major League Baseball's best record.

Fantasy Football Preview

Gregory Shamus/Getty Images, Photo Illustration by Elevendy Studio

August 17, 2015 | Austin Murphy profiles Antonio Brown, the undersized and underexposed wideout who, over the last two years, has been perhaps the NFL’s most productive wide receiver.

Fantasy Football Preview

John W. McDonough for Sports Illustrated, Photo Illustration by Elevendy Studio

August 17, 2015 | Marshawn Lynch could be the safest pick of any other running back in fantasy football.

Fantasy Football Preview

David Banks/Getty Images, Photo Illustration by Elevendy Studio

August 17, 2015 | Ryan Tannehill could be this year's fantasy quarterback breakout as he attempts to lead the Dolphins to the playoffs.

Fantasy Football Preview

Tom DiPace, Photo Illustration by Elevendy Studio

August 17, 2015 | Robert Quinn and the Rams defense are a fantasy owner's dream unit.

Ohio State

August 10, 2015 | Ohio State is looking to defend its national title this season, but the Buckeyes have no shortage of challengers.

Notre Dame

August 10, 2015 | Despite a new starting quarterback, Notre Dame looks like a contender entering the 2015 season.

Mississippi State

August 10, 2015 | Dak Prescott electrified Starkville last season as Mississippi State unexpectedly attained a No. 1 ranking, but the Bulldogs have the pressure of expectations this season.

TCU

August 10, 2015 | TCU narrowly missed the College Football Playoff last season, but Heisman candidate Trevone Boykin and the Horned Frogs are primed for a title run this year.

Pete Carroll

Rod Mar, John Iacono for Sports Illustrated (background)

August 3, 2015 | Pete Carroll isn't shaken by his fateful decision to pass from the 1-yard-line at the end of Super Bowl XLIX.

Darrelle Revis

July 27, 2015 | New York's Darrelle Revis is back on Broadway, recreating the iconic Joe Namath SI cover.

U.S. Women’s National Team

July 20, 2015 | Julie Johnston, Abby Wambach, Alex Morgan, Carli Lloyd, Hope Solo, Becky Sauerbrunn and Megan Rapinoe of the U.S. Women’s National Team appear on one of 25 different SI covers this week. The other 24 covers honor each individual player and coach Jill Ellis.

Favre: In SI’s annual “Where Are They Now?” issue

July 6-13, 2015 | Former Packers great Brett Favre finally is comfortable after retiring from the NFL for the final time five years ago.

Jordan Spieth wins the U.S. Open

June 29, 2015 | Jordan Spieth’s dramatic one-shot U.S. Open victory at Chambers Bay has the 21-year old phenom just two major victories from winning golf’s Grand Slam.

NBA MVP Stephen Curry

June 29, 2015 | Basketball’s best shooter, NBA MVP Stephen Curry, completed a dream season by helping bring home the Warriors first title in 40 years, but knows there is more work to do if they want to be known as a dynasty.

Chicago Blackhawks win their third Stanley Cup

June 22, 2015 | The Chicago Blackhawks capped off their third Stanley Cup title in six years with a victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning and are now hockey’s newest modern day dynasty.

The NBA Finals

John W. McDonough for Sports Illustrated

June 22, 2015 | The NBA Finals have completed turned around, thanks to the defensive and surprisingly, offensive contributions of Golden State Warriors guard Andre Iguodala.

American Pharoah Wins The Triple Crown

June 15, 2015 | American Pharoah ended a nearly four-decade Triple Crown drought by winning the 147th Belmont Stakes, and making it look easy.

The United States Women’s National Team

June 8, 2015 | The United States Women’s National Team is looking for redemption in this year’s World Cup after a heartbreaking shootout loss to Japan in the 2011 tournament.

Sydney Leroux

June 8, 2015 | The United States Women’s National Team is looking for redemption in this year’s World Cup after a heartbreaking shootout loss to Japan in the 2011 tournament.

Abby Wambach

June 8, 2015 | The United States Women’s National Team is looking for redemption in this year’s World Cup after a heartbreaking shootout loss to Japan in the 2011 tournament.

Alex Morgan

June 8, 2015 | The United States Women’s National Team is looking for redemption in this year’s World Cup after a heartbreaking shootout loss to Japan in the 2011 tournament.

Carli Lloyd

June 8, 2015 | The United States Women’s National Team is looking for redemption in this year’s World Cup after a heartbreaking shootout loss to Japan in the 2011 tournament.

Warriors

June 1, 2015 | NBA MVP Stephen Curry and the Warriors are rewarding fans with a brand of basketball that is packing the rafters at Oracle Arena, and bringing them closer to a championship.

LeBron James

June 1, 2015 | Make no mistake, Cleveland is LeBron James’s town, the Cavaliers are his team and with it he carries the burden of a championship-starved city on his shoulders.

Kansas City Royals

June 1, 2015 | The Kansas City Royals, led by first baseman Eric Hosmer, boasts baseball’s best record and a rough playing style that infuriates opponents, but pleases everyone else.

Stephen Curry

May 25, 2015 | The Golden State Warriors, led by Most Valuable Player Stephen Curry, are heavy favorites to bring home their first NBA championship since 1976.

Ronda Rousey

May 18, 2015 | The UFC’s biggest star, women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, has crossed over into the mainstream, but still enjoys dominating her opponents in record time.

Jim Harbaugh

May 18, 2015 | College football’s winningest program ever hopes an infusion of enthusiasm and a winning pedigree from alum and new coach Jim Harbaugh are just what its needs to become a dominate program again.

Marcus Mariota

May 11, 2015 | The NFL’s draft second overall pick, Marcus Mariota, hopes to lead a revival of fortunes for the Tennessee Titans, who haven’t been to the playoffs since 2008.

Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquiao

May 4, 2015 | Saturday’s Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquiao welterweight unification beat is expected to be the richest in boxing history and will finally settle who is the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

Jordan Spieth

April 20-27, 2015 | Jordan Spieth evoked memories of Tiger Woods’ first Masters championship, after a sublime 18-under, four-shot victory at Augusta.

UConn

April 20-27, 2015 | Connecticut again rolled through their competition this season, capped off with a 10th National Championship under coach Geno Auriemma.

Buffalo Bills

April 20-27, 2015 | The Bills have not been to the playoffs in 15 years, but fans along Rex Ryan, and Pro Football Hall of Famers Jim Kelly and Thurman Thomas are excited for the future.

Duke wins

April 13, 2015 | Duke's freshman, led by guard Tyus Jones, played like veterans in leading the Blue Devils to their fifth national championship with a victory over Wisconsin.

Russell Westbrook

April 6, 2015 | Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City’s dynamic guard, is putting up video game-type numbers this season, as the Thunder push toward a playoff berth without injured starters Kevin Durant and Serge Ibaka.

Kentucky

April 6, 2015 | So far this season, Kentucky has dispatched all of their opponents, going into the Final Four just two wins away from a historic 40-0 season.

Indians

March 30, 2015 | The Indians haven’t won the World Series since 1948, but behind Cy Young winner and MVP candidate Michael Brantley, the Tribe could be hoisting the championship trophy.

Royals

Al Tielemans/SI; inset: Steven Branscombe/USA Today Sports

March 30, 2015 | The Kansas City Royals are looking for redemption after last season’s seven-game World Series defeat to the San Francisco Giants.

Nationals

March 30, 2015 | Power is the name of the game in Washington, behind a loaded pitching staff and slugger Bryce Harper, the NL East champs are primed again to make a run in October.

Mariners

Robert Beck/SI; inset: Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images

March 30, 2015 | The Seattle Mariners, longtime bottom-feeders in the AL West, will rely on youth and ace Felix Hernandez to get over the hump and back into the playoffs.

Frank Kaminsky

March 23, 2015 | Wisconsin’s do-it-all forward, senior Frank Kaminsky, is Sports lllustrated’s Player of the Year, after leading the Badgers to a 31-3 record and the Big Ten’s regular season and tournament titles.

Kentucky/Virginia

Al Tielemans/SI; Alan Diaz, John Minchillo/AP, Joel Auerbach/Getty Images

March 16, 2015 | The regular season ACC champions have the tools, leadership and the defensive prowess to give any team, including Kentucky, fits.

Kentucky/Northern Iowa

Al Tielemans/SI; Doug McSchooler, Skip Rowland/AP, Isaiah J. Downing/USA Today Sports

March 16, 2015 | Northern Iowa, led by MVC Player of the Year Seth Tuttle, are making their first NCAA tourney appearance in five years and have never advanced past the Sweet 16.

Kentucky/Arizona

Al Tielemans/SI; Ethan Miller,Lida Degroote/Getty Images, Rick Scuteri/AP

March 16, 2015 | The Wildcats haven’t been to the Final Four since 2001, but boasts a frontcourt and defense that has given Pac-12 teams trouble this season.

Levi: Deanne Fitzmaurice/SI; Chamberlain, Paul Vathis/AP

March 9, 2015 | Did Basketball Hall of Famer Wilt Chamberlain have any children? That’s the question one San Francisco man is trying to answer as he has gone on a decade long search to prove that he is Chamberlain’s son.

Walter Iooss, Jr./SI; Body paint by Joanne Gair

March 2, 2015 | With a record $325 million contract, Marlins slugger Giancarlo Stanton is out to prove that Miami can be a contender in the loaded National League.

March 2, 2015 | Kentucky transfer Kyle Wiltjer is now starring for third-ranked Gonzaga with an improved game and reliable teammates, the Bulldogs still seek that elusive first Final Four berth.

February 23, 2015 | Houston Rockets star guard James Harden wasn’t sure he was one of the league’s best players. Now, NBA defenses have tried and mostly failed to stop the league’s leading scorer.

February 23, 2015 | Klay Thompson

February 23, 2015 | Jimmy Butler

Winter, 2015 | The SI Swimsuit 2015 cover, starring one Hannah Davis, is here! The cover shot, taken by Ben Watts at Tennessee's idyllic Blackberry Farm, marks Hannah's third (and, we tend to think, best) appearance in the issue and was revealed Wednesday night on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

New England Patriots

February 9-16, 2015 | The New England Patriots have cemented their legacy as one of the NFL’s best dynasties ever with a fourth championship, a thrilling Super Bowl XLIX victory over the Seattle Seahawks.

Richard Sherman

February 2, 2015 | Richard Sherman and 'Legion of Boom' appear on the cover of SI this week.

Ernie Banks

February 2, 2015 | Legendary shortstop Ernie Banks was the heart and soul of the Chicago Cubs despite never reaching the postseason in his 19 MLB seasons.

Super Bowl preview

January 26, 2015 | The Seahawks and Patriots both have a legacy they want to stake by winning Super Bowl XLIX: being the best football team of this generation.

The National Champions

January 19, 2015 | Ohio State is on top of the college football after Ezekiel Elliott and the Buckeyes ran all over Oregon in the National Championship Game.

Oregon

January 12, 2015 | No team has stopped Oregon in the past three months and Ohio State’s task in the National Championship game will be to slow down the Ducks’ feared running attack.

Rob Gronkowski

January 12, 2015 | All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski could be the key to the New England Patriots hoisting another Super Bowl trophy.