As we move into the last quarter of 2017, it will have been almost one year since Ronda Rousey suffered her first UFC career defeat at the hands of Holly Holm. Now, the former UFC Women’s bantamweight champion’s name is in the headlines once again though nothing has been set in stone.
Recall that UFC president Dana White has repeatedly vouched for Ronda Rousey though nothing has come close to an actual match. Based on reports, “Rowdy” could make her return this Dec. 30 and that it will be against Amanda Nunes for the same title she lost, ESPN reported.
Rousey quietly in training
Before even considering a return by Ronda Rousey, many wonder if she is still in shape. According to her trainer, Edmond Tarverdyan, the former UFC women’s bantamweight champion has been quietly training though there is no guarantee of seeing her compete before 2016 comes to a close.
He adds that there are actually ongoing discussions for a Ronda Rousey vs. Amanda Nunes match though no agreement has been reached for now. Rousey has been busy with her filming commitments and has hardly been felt since that loss to Holm at UFC 193.
Is Rousey mentally prepared?
Based on Tarverdyan’s revelation, there seems to be little doubt that Ronday Rousey is ready to compete at some point. But as most know, it is her mental will that is in question.
The year saw Ronda Rousey break down and even consider suicide though she nixed all that because of boyfriend Travis Browne. So if there is something that needs to be cleared up, it may be her mental state before returning to the Octagon.
Does “Cyborg” still have a shot?
Prior to the loss, everyone was anticipating a big clash between Ronda Rousey and Cris “Cyborg” Justino. There were a lot of prerequisites such as weight limit and fights to do before the bout could be made. With the loss, even that has been doused.
Cyborg is coming off a big second round win over Lina Lansberg at UFC 198 and it remains to be seen who she will face next. Reviving Ronda Rousey talks could be possible but the former UFC women’s bantamweight champion needs to formally return first.
