An estimated crowd of 20,000 people celebrated Holly Holm Day at the Civic Plaza in downtown Albuquerque yesterday afternoon. The new queen of the cage was honored for her upset knockout of Ronda Rousey for the UFC Bantamweight Title. Small children sat on their parents’ shoulders wearing boxing gloves and T-shirts displaying images of the new queen of combat, as well as a multitude of homemade signs honoring the new champ. It has been several weeks since Holm shocked the sports world, but it seemed more like several minutes based on the enthusiasm of her loyal fans.

At the parade’s conclusion Governor Susana Martinez, Mayor Richard Berry, and other dignitaries read proclamations and delivered messages of pride. Fighting back tears at times, Holly thanked all her fans for their support throughout the years. She talked about the importance of the support she received from her family and team during this arduous journey. If Holly had been running for political office she would have won in a landslide. Even the weather cooperated, as it was above fifty degrees with no wind and a sunny sky.

At a press conference after the parade, Holm talked about adjusting to being a global celebrity. Going to the mall, having lunch with family and friends, taking in a movie, she’s adjusting to a loss of privacy. Holly talked about how her new found fame tested her patience. But, she added, “I just keep reminding myself that it’s because… people care.” Although her life will never be the same, she hasn’t forgotten where she came from and probably never will.

In the weeks since her victory it’s amazing how many people have told me they knew Holly would win. If that were true Las Vegas, NV would have made her an overwhelming betting favorite. I was impressed with the approach her team was taking in preparing for Ronda Rousey, but gave her little chance of success. I never put my feelings in print, as negativity had no place in their training for the title match. But I’m glad I was wrong, having completely overrated Rousey’s skills as a boxer. The one statement I remember from Holly’s press conference before she left for Melbourne, Australia was, “I’m not here to get a participation ribbon.” That statement resonated with me and I knew she would give it her best shot.

It would be understandable if success had gone to her head, but it has not. Holly acts the same now as she did before, but it will be more difficult as the demands for her time will be ridiculous. When she returned from Australia she had to do a media tour of both coasts, seemingly answering the same questions over and over again.

As for her future, Holly has no preference as to who she will face next. She stated she never calls out an opponent and never will. If she does have a rematch with Ronda Rousey as many think she will, I doubt that overconfidence will be a problem. Others at the press conference implied that the Rousey puzzle was solved, but Holly indicated that she was taking nothing for granted.

In addition to Holly, her promoter/manager Lenny Fresquez spoke.  He has done an amazing job maximizing her value in both boxing and MMA, while minimizing the risk involved. When primary trainers Mike Winkeljohn and Greg Jackson took the podium, I was amazed at how they kept their egos in check. They both have huge reputations in MMA, but despite their individual successes, they have found a way to work well together.  Izzy Martinez, Holly’s wrestling coach, addressed the media. His job was to minimize Rousey’s advantage if she took the fight to the mat.

If team Holm stays grounded, the new champion should have a long reign.