Despite recent whispers and calls for Ronda Rousey to step back into the octagon, a prominent former fighter expresses strong skepticism, believing a comeback wouldn`t fare well for the MMA icon.
Rousey, widely recognized as a pioneer in women`s mixed martial arts and a participant in the UFC`s inaugural female bout, has not competed professionally since 2016.
Her final two appearances in the cage ended in consecutive knockout losses: a monumental upset against Holly Holm, followed by another defeat to Amanda Nunes just a year later.
These decisive losses appeared to signal the conclusion of `Rowdy`s` illustrious MMA journey. She subsequently transitioned into professional wrestling with WWE, and further quelled return rumors by disclosing neurological injuries that would preclude her from competitive fighting.
However, the 38-year-old`s recent activity on social media has once again ignited speculation about a potential return to the fighting world.
UFC Veteran Matt Brown Advises Ronda Rousey Against MMA Comeback
In September, Rousey sparked a fresh wave of UFC comeback speculation after sharing an Instagram training video. In the accompanying caption, the former bantamweight champion admitted to rediscovering her “love” for MMA.
Her comments rapidly fueled the rumor mill, bringing the prospect of a UFC return for the legendary fighter—whom Dana White once placed on his Mount Rushmore of MMA—back into active discussion.
During a recent episode of MMA Fighting’s The Fighter vs. The Writer, veteran fighter Matt Brown, known as `The Immortal,` weighed in on Rousey`s potential comeback. While acknowledging the immense public interest a return would generate, Brown firmly predicted a comfortable defeat for Rousey.
“We know everyone would rally behind bringing Ronda Rousey back. With her immense star power, whether you love her or hate her, everyone would absolutely tune in. But I`d say the same thing for Conor (McGregor)… you simply cannot take that much time off and expect to compete at a high level. Everyone else is training every single day. This isn`t 1998 anymore, where you could just prepare for a training camp, then relax, and then come back. We`re not even talking about a short break; we`re talking about years off. She`ll get destroyed.”
Cris Cyborg Extends an Offer for Ronda Rousey`s MMA Return
Should Ronda Rousey ultimately commit to an MMA comeback, one legendary figure from outside the UFC has already expressed readiness and willingness to face her.
Cris Cyborg, currently embarking on her “legacy tour” as she approaches the conclusion of her distinguished fighting career, might be persuaded to postpone her retirement plans.
Cyborg has two remaining fights under her PFL contract, with her first scheduled against Sara Collins this December. This bout will serve as part of the undercard for Vadim Nemkov`s heavyweight title defense against Renan Ferreira in Lyon, France.
Through social media, Cyborg publicly indicated her eagerness to be the opponent for Rousey’s possible return to the cage.
Her succinct message on X regarding the comeback rumors simply stated: #CyborgRousey.
Neville Whittle