The echoes of a thunderous career, one that bridged the brutal intensity of mixed martial arts with the theatrical spectacle of professional wrestling, continue to resonate within the industry. Ronda Rousey, a name synonymous with groundbreaking achievements and a fierce competitive spirit, stepped away from the WWE spotlight following SummerSlam 2023, her final contest a unique MMA Rules match against her formidable compatriot, Shayna Baszler. While Rousey’s reflections on her tenure with the Stamford-based promotion have, at times, been less than glowing, a prominent voice from within the wrestling landscape, that of Baszler herself, suggests that the door to an in-ring return for the former Raw Women’s Champion might not be entirely shut.
Speaking candidly in a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet on his "Insight" program, Baszler offered her perspective on the likelihood of Rousey gracing the wrestling ring once more. Drawing a parallel to the celebrated and long-anticipated comeback of CM Punk, Baszler articulated a belief that Rousey’s competitive fire, coupled with the unpredictable nature of professional wrestling, leaves the door ajar for a future resurgence. "I never think Ronda is done," Baszler stated, her words carrying the weight of personal experience and intimate knowledge of her former tag team partner. "She’s a crazy person." This seemingly flippant remark, however, belies a deep understanding of Rousey’s relentless drive and unwavering commitment. Baszler acknowledged the significant role Rousey’s family now plays in her life, particularly her dedication to motherhood. "She loves being a mom," Baszler admitted. "It would take a bit, but CM Punk came back. Ronda Rousey can come back." This comparison to Punk, whose own return to wrestling after a lengthy absence sent shockwaves through the industry, serves as a potent indicator of Baszler’s optimistic outlook.
Rousey’s journey into the world of professional wrestling was, itself, a phenomenon. After dominating the world of MMA, achieving legendary status as the UFC’s first female bantamweight champion, she made a highly publicized transition to WWE in 2018. Her initial run, spanning from 2018 to 2019, was characterized by an immediate impact, captivating audiences with her authentic intensity and undeniable star power. After a period of hiatus, she made a triumphant return at the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble, reigniting her presence on the main roster and capturing the SmackDown Women’s Championship. Her second WWE stint concluded in 2023, a period that saw her participate in various matches, including independent and Ring of Honor engagements, before embarking on another significant break from the spotlight. It is this cycle of departure and return, punctuated by a clear passion for competition, that fuels Baszler’s conviction.
The narrative of Baszler and Rousey’s final WWE encounter at SummerSlam 2023 holds particular significance in this discussion. Baszler revealed in the same "Insight" interview that she was aware of the impending conclusion of Rousey’s contract and the underlying personal motivations behind it. "So I knew, because I’m very close with her," Baszler explained, emphasizing the depth of their connection. "That was the last date on her contract, because she had planned to have another baby, and that was the plan." This insider perspective sheds light on the strategic planning involved, a common thread in the careers of seasoned performers. Rousey’s stated desire to expand her family and prioritize her role as a mother was a driving force behind her departure, a choice Baszler fully understands and respects. "I mean, Ronda loves nothing more now than being a mom, and so I knew for a while, for so long we wanted to start that story," Baszler elaborated. The planned narrative, a continuation of their real-life bond and competitive history, was cut short by the constraints of contract dates and life’s own unfolding timeline. Baszler expressed a sense of what could have been, stating, "I think if we would have had longer, I think that would have benefited us a lot, because I think we did a great job with the time that we had." This sentiment suggests that their feud, built on a foundation of genuine respect and a shared history in combat sports, had the potential to be one of the most compelling women’s storylines in recent memory, had circumstances allowed for a more extended development.
The parallels between Rousey and other high-profile athletes who have transitioned to professional wrestling and then returned after periods away are striking. The allure of the squared circle, with its unique blend of athleticism, performance, and fan engagement, often proves difficult to resist. Athletes like Brock Lesnar, who transitioned from UFC dominance to WWE superstardom, or even Olympic gold medalists who have found success in wrestling, demonstrate the crossover appeal and the potential for sustained careers in this dynamic entertainment medium. Ronda Rousey, with her unparalleled combat sports pedigree and a charisma that commands attention, possesses all the necessary ingredients to not only return but to make a significant impact once again. The question isn’t necessarily if she could return, but rather what the conditions and motivations for such a return would be.
Baszler’s own perspective on Rousey’s in-ring capabilities is rooted in their shared training and competitive history. Baszler, a former NXT Women’s Champion and a legitimate submission specialist with a background in MMA herself, understands the physical and mental demands of professional wrestling. Her assessment of Rousey’s potential return isn’t based on mere speculation, but on a foundation of shared experience and a deep respect for Rousey’s athletic prowess. The "crazy person" comment, in this context, speaks to Rousey’s fearless nature and her willingness to push boundaries, qualities that are essential for success in the demanding world of professional wrestling. It suggests a competitor who thrives under pressure and is not afraid to take risks.
Furthermore, the landscape of women’s wrestling within WWE has evolved considerably since Rousey’s initial departure. The division has grown in depth and talent, with a roster of formidable athletes constantly vying for championship contention. A potential return by Rousey would undoubtedly shake up the established order, creating immediate intrigue and potentially reigniting rivalries or forging new ones. The prospect of seeing Rousey face off against current champions or rising stars is a tantalizing one for wrestling enthusiasts. Her unique skill set, which blends striking power with submission techniques, offers a different style of wrestling than many of the current roster members, providing fresh and exciting matchups.
The concept of "legacy" also plays a significant role in such discussions. For athletes like Rousey, who have already achieved the pinnacle of success in their primary field, the decision to return to another demanding profession often stems from a desire to leave a lasting mark, to continue to compete at the highest level, or perhaps to explore unfinished business. Rousey’s initial WWE run was met with both adoration and criticism, and a return could offer her the opportunity to further solidify her legacy within professional wrestling, perhaps by achieving new milestones or delivering performances that redefine expectations.
The personal motivations behind any potential return are, of course, paramount. While Baszler acknowledges Rousey’s deep commitment to her family, she also recognizes the inherent competitive drive that has defined Rousey’s entire career. The allure of the spotlight, the roar of the crowd, and the thrill of competition are powerful forces that can draw athletes back to the arena, even after extended breaks. The comparison to CM Punk’s return is particularly apt here, as Punk’s own journey saw him balance personal aspirations with a burning desire to compete in professional wrestling once more.
Ultimately, the possibility of Ronda Rousey’s return to the WWE ring remains a topic of speculation, fueled by the insights of those closest to her and the enduring legacy she has already built. Shayna Baszler’s belief, grounded in her intimate knowledge of Rousey’s character and competitive spirit, suggests that while life circumstances may necessitate pauses, the fire for competition within "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey may very well still be burning. The wrestling world eagerly awaits any developments, as the return of a talent like Rousey would undoubtedly be a seismic event, capable of electrifying audiences and reshaping the narrative of women’s wrestling for years to come. The octagon may have been her initial proving ground, but the squared circle has proven to be a siren song that, for some, is simply too powerful to ignore forever.
