Ronda Rousey with the WWE title Credits: WWE
Jon Anik Expresses Concerns over Ronda Rousey’s Immediate Title Shot in UFC Return
UFC commentator Jon Anik has shared his reservations about the possibility of Ronda Rousey receiving an immediate title shot if she decides to make a comeback to the Octagon. Rousey, who hasn’t competed in MMA since her devastating loss to Amanda Nunes in December 2016, has faced two consecutive defeats, including a knockout by Holly Holm in November 2015.
While Rousey has been involved with WWE since leaving the UFC, capturing the women’s championship in 2018 and currently holding the tag team championships, fans have speculated if the UFC-WWE merger could pave the way for her return to the MMA world.
In a recent interview with MMAFighting, Jon Anik was asked for his thoughts on Rousey potentially receiving an immediate title shot upon her return. Anik expressed concerns, stating, “In a true meritocracy, that’s not gonna set well with me nor the athletes that have been donating blood, sweat, and tears to mixed martial arts over the last several years.”
Anik acknowledged Rousey’s past achievements and her potential competitiveness, but he didn’t appreciate how Henry Cejudo came back and skipped ahead of active fighters in line. While Anik didn’t outright reject the idea, he highlighted the need for fairness in the sport.
Considering the UFC-WWE merger, the question remains whether Ronda Rousey will make a comeback to the Octagon. While Anik’s reservations suggest the potential for controversy, fans will continue to speculate about the possibility of Rousey returning to MMA and the impact it could have on the UFC-WWE collaboration.
Ronda Rousey’s time in the UFC was a watershed moment for the development of women’s MMA. Rousey’s historic run to the title of UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion was a major factor in the rise of women’s mixed martial arts.
Rousey’s judo training and superb grappling ability made her an instant success in the MMA cage. Her opponents were frequently submitted in the first round thanks to her aggressive fighting style and famous armbar submission.
Rousey’s meteoric ascent to fame was accompanied by an air of invincibility, thanks to her six successful title defences until losing to Holly Holm in a shocking upset. Rousey’s influence on the sport was unquestionable despite her setback; she paved the path for other female fighters and inspired a new generation of competitors.
Rousey’s success outside of the cage can be attributed to her personality and marketability. She broke into the film industry and even tried her hand at professional wrestling with WWE.
Ronda Rousey’s groundbreaking and influential UFC career changed how people saw women in mixed martial arts forever. Her pioneering and blazing ways will go down in UFC lore for all time.
More MMA news
Follow our dedicated MMA page for instant MMA news and update