5 opponents for Ronda Rousey if she returns to UFC

#2. Ronda Rousey vs. Miesha Tate 3

A trilogy between Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate would be very lucrative for the UFC. Both women are former women’s bantamweight champions and have a long history with one another. Since returning to the octagon, Tate is 1-1 and will now try her luck at flyweight.

Their first encounter took place in 2012 when both competed in Strikeforce. This was a significant moment in ‘Rowdy’s MMA career as she submitted Tate to become Strikeforce women’s bantamweight champion. They met the following year at UFC 168 after serving as opposing coaches on The Ultimate Fighter.

Although the rematch lasted longer, ‘Rowdy’ retained the UFC women’s bantamweight champion after submitting ‘Cupcake’ with an armbar in the third round.

The loss was a turning point in ‘Cupcake’s UFC career. She won her next five bouts, which included her submission win over Holly Holm to become women’s bantamweight champion.

With Tate rejuvenating her career after a 5-year absence, it would be interesting to see what would transpire. It would be an easy sell to the UFC fanbase due to their existing rivalry.

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#1. Ronda Rousey vs. UFC women’s bantamweight champion Julianna Pena

Ronda Rousey has been challenged by Julianna Pena

Since Ronda Rousey was the biggest star in women’s MMA, it is entirely possible she could earn an immediate title shot. Being an active WWE superstar does benefit as she is featured in weekly programming, so the UFC can take advantage.

In addition, reigning women’s bantamweight champion Julianna Pena hasn’t shied away from sharing her opinions about her.

“She’s killing it in the WWE, and she can make a ton more money doing what she does over there instead of doing the real s---. But if she wants to challenge herself and come back to the real stuff, I’ll be here."

The two are no strangers to one another as ‘Rowdy’ served as a coach on TUF opposite Pena’s mentor Miesha Tate. ‘The Venezuelan Vixen’ won that season, so it would be a full circle career moment if they competed in the octagon.