There`s significant interest in Ronda Rousey returning to the UFC octagon, but a former fighter is highly skeptical about her prospects.
Ronda Rousey, a trailblazing figure in MMA and a participant in the UFC`s inaugural women`s bout, has been notably absent from competition since 2016.
Following a historic upset knockout loss to Holly Holm, the 2008 Olympic judo bronze medalist suffered another knockout defeat a year later against Amanda Nunes.
This two-fight losing streak seemed to mark the conclusion of `Rowdy`s` illustrious MMA career. Rousey then transitioned to professional wrestling with WWE, and speculation about a UFC comeback diminished further when she disclosed neurological injuries that would hinder her ability to compete.
Nevertheless, recent social media activity from the 38-year-old athlete has once again ignited rumors of a potential return to the cage.
UFC Veteran Matt Brown Advises Ronda Rousey Against an MMA Comeback
In September, Rousey fueled UFC return speculation by sharing a training video on Instagram, where the former bantamweight champion stated she was rediscovering her passion for MMA.
Her comments naturally set off a wave of speculation, bringing renewed discussion of a UFC comeback for a fighter considered by Dana White to be among MMA`s greatest.
On a recent episode of MMA Fighting`s The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown weighed in on the potential return. Despite acknowledging the guaranteed viewership for such a fight, `The Immortal` believes Rousey would face a decisive defeat.
Brown stated, “Everyone would support Ronda Rousey`s return. Given her massive star power, absolutely everyone would be interested. Love her or hate her, we`d all watch.”
He added, “I`d say the same for Conor McGregor… you can`t take that much time off and expect to perform at a high level.”
Brown emphasized, “Everyone else is training daily. This isn`t 1998, where fighters could just train for a camp, relax, and then return. We`re talking about years away from the sport.”
His conclusion was unequivocal: “She would be annihilated.”
Cris Cyborg Extends Offer to Welcome Ronda Rousey Back to MMA
If Rousey ultimately commits to an MMA comeback, a legendary figure outside the UFC is prepared and willing to face her.
Cris Cyborg is currently on her “legacy tour,” approaching the end of her distinguished fighting career.
The renowned Brazilian fighter has two bouts left on her PFL contract, beginning with a match against Sara Collins in December, on the undercard of Vadim Nemkov`s heavyweight title defense against Renan Ferreira in Lyon, France.
Although it would likely require delaying her retirement plans, Cyborg publicly expressed her willingness on social media to be Rousey`s opponent for a potential return.
She commented “#CyborgRousey” on an X (formerly Twitter) post discussing Rousey`s hinted comeback, signaling her readiness for the long-awaited matchup.
