In a startling turn of events, the iconic Ronda Rousey, who has been making waves in the world of professional wrestling with WWE, is reportedly contemplating a sensational return to the UFC. The latest scoop suggests that the former MMA champion is setting her sights on an electrifying comeback at UFC 300, slated for early 2024.
Whispers of a UFC Resurgence
The intriguing news comes from one of Rousey’s confidants, who, speaking to Sadie Whitelocks of DailyMail.com, divulged the secret plans of the 36-year-old athlete. According to this trusted source, Ronda Rousey is looking to wrap up her commitments with the WWE, intending to shift her focus toward a dramatic return to the UFC. The grand stage for this proposed comeback? UFC 300, an event that promises to be nothing short of historic.
“It’s no secret that Rousey had her last match at SummerSlam, and she’s looking to wind down her time with the WWE. Now, she’s aiming to make a triumphant return and compete at UFC 300, which is set to take place sometime next year,” the source revealed.
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The Long Wait: Ronda Rousey’s Absence from the UFC
For MMA enthusiasts, Ronda Rousey’s journey in the UFC is etched in memory. Her last fight in the octagon dates back to 2016 when she faced Amanda Nunes and suffered a first-round knockout in a mere 48 seconds at UFC 207. Since that momentous night, Rousey’s association with the UFC has been primarily limited to her induction into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2018.
A Contractual Countdown and a WWE Farewell
Reports suggest that Rousey’s WWE contract holds a ‘hard out,’ meaning her departure from the world of scripted sports entertainment is imminent. Her most recent WWE match at SummerSlam saw her squaring off against Shayna Baszler, resulting in a loss. Speculations are rife that this contest might very well mark her final appearance in the world of professional wrestling.
Differing Opinions: Is Ronda Rousey Truly Returning to the UFC?
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It’s essential to consider the conflicting reports surrounding Rousey’s potential return to the UFC. Renowned MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, in a report from last month, indicated that Rousey had no intentions of making a comeback and that rumors suggesting otherwise held no merit. But the landscape has significantly shifted since then, with Amanda Nunes announcing her retirement and relinquishing her bantamweight and featherweight titles during the summer. This opens up new possibilities for Rousey’s return, especially in the depleted bantamweight division.
A Crossroads in Rousey’s Career: What Lies Ahead
As Ronda Rousey stands at a pivotal crossroads in her life and career, she appears to be contemplating her next move with great deliberation. Beyond the world of combat sports, Rousey is considering her options in the realms of television and film, making it a prominent focus in her evolving career.
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In a statement from the same source, Rousey’s current state of mind is characterized as one of exploration: “She is at a current crossroads in her life and career as she is looking to see what she might want to do next.” This underscores the multifaceted nature of her career, which extends beyond her extraordinary success in both MMA and professional wrestling.
Speculation and Anticipation: A Ronda Rousey Comeback
The possible return of Ronda Rousey to the UFC is shrouded in speculation and anticipation. It’s a storyline that transcends sports and captivates fans across the globe. If the whispers hold true, UFC 300 will mark the stage for her grand reentrance into the world of mixed martial arts, where she once held the spotlight with unmatched charisma and prowess.
The journey from WWE to UFC is not just about fighting but also about the pursuit of dreams and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The world awaits Ronda Rousey’s decision, and whether she chooses to step back into the octagon at UFC 300, her legacy and influence remain unshakable.