The mystery surrounding Ronda Rousey’s return has finally come to light, and it involves Conor McGregor. The former UFC champion has kept the MMA world buzzing for months, ever since she hinted on social media that she might step back into the fight game. Fans got a glimpse of her renewed passion for combat sports when viral clips emerged showing Rousey sparring years after retiring due to concussion issues.

Her September sparring clip completely surprised fans. The mother of two now looks ready to return to fighting, but not in the Octagon. Instead, following in the footsteps of Anderson Silva and Ben Askren, Rousey appears to be targeting a major payday in boxing, potentially against a fighter backed by Conor McGregor.

Ronda Rousey targets big payday against Conor McGregor’s compatriot

Boxing journalist Lance Pugmire revealed on X that women’s MMA star Ronda Rousey is returning to the boxing scene. “Katie Taylor ⁦@KatieTaylor⁩ vs. Ronda Rousey ⁦@RondaRousey⁩ in the works for Las Vegas showdown in 2026,” Pugmire wrote on X, sending shockwaves throughout the MMA community.

Rousey has not competed in MMA since 2016, following knockout losses to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes, which she later attributed to concussions she suffered since childhood that worsened over time. Now, she is targeting someone like Katie Taylor, who has been active in the ring and recently defeated Amanda Serrano this past summer to claim the undisputed female super lightweight title.

The news has also raised concerns, as highlighted by Mike Bohn. “Crazy proposition. My biggest question about a Rousey combat return in any form: How does any commission in good faith license her to compete after the book tour where she opened up about her concussion history?” via X.

(More to Come… )