New York: Nearly a decade after her last UFC fight, former MMA superstar Ronda Rousey is reportedly considering a return to combat sports — this time in the boxing ring. Sources suggest Rousey is in active negotiations to face undisputed super lightweight champion Katie Taylor in 2026, according to Boxing Scene.
Rousey, a six-time UFC women’s bantamweight champion, took an extended hiatus from MMA following knockout losses to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes, ultimately retiring due to a series of concussions before turning 30. Since then, she has focused on her personal life as a farmer and mother, while largely staying out of the MMA spotlight.
Despite shutting down rumors of an MMA return — once claiming it would take “a billion dollars” to get her back in the Octagon — Rousey has recently returned to the gym and resumed training, fueling speculation of a comeback, this time in boxing.
Katie Taylor: A Legacy Already Cemented
Meanwhile, Katie Taylor has established herself as one of the greatest female boxers of all time. The 39-year-old has held undisputed titles at 135 and 140 pounds and famously completed a trilogy of victories over Amanda Serrano, including historic fights headlining Madison Square Garden and Netflix cards.
Taylor won her first world title in October 2017 against Anahi Ester Sanchez and achieved undisputed status by defeating Delfine Persoon in 2019. Since then, she has been a top-five female pound-for-pound fighter, breaking viewership records and solidifying her place in boxing history.
A potential Rousey vs. Taylor crossover bout would pit two of combat sports’ most iconic athletes against each other. While it may not elevate Taylor’s already established legacy, the fight could attract massive attention, further boosting her global profile and drawing new audiences to women’s boxing.
Why This Fight Matters
This matchup represents a rare MMA-to-boxing crossover involving two female pioneers in their respective sports. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Rousey’s striking evolution and athleticism can match Taylor’s precision and experience in the boxing ring.
As negotiations continue, combat sports enthusiasts are keeping a close eye on what could become one of the biggest female fights in history.
