Ronda Rousey Teases UFC Return: Top 3 Possible Opponents for the Former Women's Bantamweight Champion
Former UFC women's bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey has been silent about her future career plans since Holly Holm ended her undefeated streak in November last year. But in a recently launched campaign of UFC apparel sponsor Reebok, the second-best female bantamweight fighter in the world appeared to be teasing her fans about her long-awaited UFC comeback.
Reebok Ad Hints Ronda Rousey's UFC Return
"Perfect never gets a shot at redemption. So, yeah, I'm fine not being perfect," Rousey stated in the commercial ad while wearing boxing gear and hitting punching bags.
While there was no confirmation yet from Rousey's camp, some UFC fans were quick to speculate that the former women's bantamweight champion is set to get back into the Octagon to redeem her UFC title. "For the legions of fans who thrilled to her exploits in MMA, Rousey's Reebok ad provides hope that, whatever the reason, she is intent on reclaiming her crown," Des Bieler of Washington Post wrote.
Ronda Rousey's Top 3 Possible Opponents
Ronda Rousey has remained silent about her future plans. However, in case she decides to get a shot of redemption as mentioned on her Reebok ad, she may face one of these three female UFC fighters:
1. Amanda Nunes. UFC president Dana White told Fox Sports that Rousey is still considered as one of the top fighters who are highly qualified for the women's bantamweight title. He added that if Rousey will decide to fight in the coming months, she could always pick reigning champion Amanda Nunes as her opponent for the long-waited comeback.
2. Holly Holm. A rematch between Rousey and Holm is also possible. White mentioned that if Rousey will decide to fight next year, she will face whoever the champion at that time. Holm is set to go against Valentina Shevchenko on July 23. If Holm wins, she will be a top contender to face Amanda Nunes later this year. This means that if Holm will manage to beat Nunes, she will be the reigning women's bantamweight champion early next year and may face Rousey.
3. Miesha Tate. Former bantamweight champion Miesha Tate has always been vocal about her desire to face Rousey, who defeated her twice in the past. Tate told MMA Junkie that she is looking forward to a third fight with Rousey. But after she suffered a painful loss from Nunes early this month, her third fight with Rousey might not be possible. However, if Rousey decides to fight next year, Tate still has time to elevate her rank.