The former bantamweight world champion, Ronda Rousey, who was once the highest-paid fighter in her division, took a break from MMA after her final fight against Amanda Nunes at UFC 207 in 2016, where she earned an impressive $3 million. According to reports, there is speculation of Ronda Rousey making a sensational comeback to the UFC.
Since then, Rousey ventured into the world of WWE, winning three women's world championships and participating in the first-ever all-women's main event at WrestleMania. However, despite her success in wrestling and an ongoing feud with her close friend and fellow MMA fighter Shayna Baszler, it seems Rousey might be considering a return to the octagon.
Former Invicta FC fighter Chelsea Chandler recently mentioned that she heard Rousey is preparing to make a comeback, potentially in the 145-pound division. Chandler, eager to face Rousey, stated that if she performs well in her upcoming fights, she would welcome Rousey to the division.
Potential Rousey Return Would Prove Significant For UFC
Should Rousey decide to return to the UFC, Chandler believes she would be at the forefront of the line of women vying to fight her. Chandler expressed that a fight with Rousey would be exciting and acknowledged the drawing power Rousey possesses, stating that her presence would bring attention back to the sport, especially as Rousey's time in WWE appears to be winding down.
Currently, Rousey is reportedly earning around $1.5 million with WWE, with additional bonuses and merchandise contributing to an estimated salary of approximately $2.1 million. This places her as the second highest-paid women's wrestler in the company, with former rival Becky Lynch supposedly earning $2.5 million per year, as per reports by 888 Sport.
All in all, this means that any potential return would not only be massively popular among fans and boost the UFC’s visibility but would in turn require a lucrative offer to Rousey which might rival her WWE earnings.