The rivalry between Ronda Rousey and the UFC continues to intensify as the former champion prepares for her highly anticipated mixed martial arts comeback. Despite her meteoric rise to superstardom within the promotion, ‘Rowdy,’ widely regarded as one of the greatest female fighters in MMA history, has maintained a strained relationship with her former employer in recent years. Now, with her return approaching – a comeback initially rumored to occur within the octagon – the 39-year-old is actively promoting her event, which includes publicly criticizing the UFC.
Rousey’s grand return promises to be a memorable spectacle for combat sports enthusiasts. More than just her long-awaited clash with Gina Carano, a fight over a decade in the making, the event boasts a lineup of other compelling matchups.
Newly signed after leaving the PFL, Francis Ngannou is set to face Philipe Lins in a five-round heavyweight contest. Given both fighters’ reputations for explosive finishes, fans can anticipate an electrifying showdown when they step into the cage on May 16th.
The event will also mark the comeback of Nate Diaz. Notably, Diaz opted against a UFC return, instead signing with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. He is scheduled to fight Mike Perry on the undercard of Rousey vs. Carano, with the entire event streaming live on Netflix.
Following the announcement of the Diaz-Perry bout, Ronda Rousey escalated her verbal campaign against the UFC, specifically targeting Hunter Campbell, the promotion’s executive vice president and chief business officer.
In a pointed social media message, Rousey declared, “Welcome to the revolution Nate Diaz [and] Mike Perry! It’s the FIGHTERS vs the establishment — and we’re gonna win! May 16th only on Netflix.” She then directly challenged Campbell, adding, “P.S. Hunter Campbell pissed off the wrong b*tch, I’m coming for your job motherf***er.”
Hunter Campbell has gained increased public recognition in recent years, known for his significant influence in the UFC’s daily operations. Reports suggest that Campbell was instrumental in blocking Ronda Rousey’s potential return to the UFC, thereby igniting the ongoing conflict between the organization and the legendary MMA figure.
