Internet Stunned as Promoters Plan Return of Sensation Ronda Rousey Against World Champion Katie Taylor 

Boxing insider Lance Pugmire reports that discussions are already underway for a potential showdown between Ronda Rousey and Katie Taylor.

Internet Stunned as Promoters Plan Return of Sensation Ronda Rousey Against World Champion Katie Taylor 

Ronda Rousey vs Katie Taylor in initial talks (via ESPN, Bad Left Hook)

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The world of women’s combat sports may be heading toward one of its most unexpected crossover fights yet. Early negotiations are reportedly underway for a potential boxing match between Ronda Rousey and Katie Taylor, an announcement that has instantly sparked excitement and speculation.

If the fight is finalized, it would mark a massive comeback moment for the former UFC women’s 135lbs champion and a bold new challenge for Taylor. For the unversed, Rousey has been away from combat sports since her 2016 loss to Amanda Nunes, the final bout of her MMA career.

After retiring, she shifted her focus to professional wrestling, but her influence on the sport remains unmatched. As the first woman ever signed to the UFC, Rousey helped build the foundation of women’s MMA and played a major role in its rise to global prominence.

With the company preparing for its White House event in June 2026, fans have been calling for Rousey to return to the spotlight. She has repeatedly stated she has no intention of competing at the event, keeping her retirement firmly in place.

However, a different opportunity may now be opening. According to boxing reporter Lance Pugmire, early discussions have begun for a Rousey vs. Taylor crossover fight, an idea that could bring together two icons from different combat sports on one massive stage.

The proposed matchup draws interest due to Rousey’s challenging history against elite strikers. Her final two MMA appearances ended in knockout losses to Holly Holm and Nunes at UFC 193 and UFC 207, respectively, both known for their striking ability.

Despite that, she built a dominant run using high-level judo and rapid submission finishes. The contrast between her grappling strengths and boxing limitations adds intrigue to the scenario. On the other hand, Taylor enters the discussion as one of the most accomplished boxers of her generation.

The Irishwoman has secured multiple world titles and recently concluded her trilogy with Amanda Serrano, further strengthening her resume. Her sustained activity and championship pedigree position her as a formidable opponent in any crossover setting. The skill gap in pure boxing rules would be a significant factor.

In a broader perspective, both athletes have achieved significant Olympic success, with Taylor winning boxing gold in 2012 and Rousey earning judo bronze in 2008. A potential matchup would symbolize a clash between two decorated Olympians turned global combat-sports figures. The stakes extend beyond competition, as they represent the merging of two elite sporting legacies.

Fans react to the potential Ronda Rousey vs. Katie Taylor boxing bout announcement

Many fans reacted with excitement at the possibility of Ronda Rousey stepping into a boxing ring against an elite champion like Katie Taylor. Some viewed the matchup as a massive crossover moment that could bridge two major fanbases. Supporters praised the star power both athletes bring. They argued the spectacle alone would make the event historic.

Ronda Rousey vs Katie Taylor
Ronda Rousey vs Katie Taylor (via X and Matchroom Boxing)

Others expressed skepticism about Rousey’s chances, pointing to her struggles against high-level strikers in MMA. Discussions highlighted concerns over the long gap since her last fight and the difficulty of transitioning to pure boxing. Fans debated whether her grappling-heavy background would translate at all. Many felt Taylor’s technical experience gives her a decisive edge.

Fans also compared the situation to past boxing–MMA crossovers like Conor McGregor vs. Floyd Mayweather, Francis Ngannou vs. Tyson Fury, and Anderson Silva’s ventures into boxing. They noted how these matchups helped normalize stars switching sports. With that history in mind, a bout featuring Ronda Rousey and Katie Taylor felt like a fitting addition.

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