Fresh off her title defence victory at UFC 322, champion Valentina Shevchenko has weighed in on the potential return of a legend, stating she would support a Ronda Rousey comeback to the Octagon. However, ‘Bullet’ was clear on two points: she does not see herself as a potential opponent for Rousey, and she believes the former champion should not jump straight back into the deep end.
Shevchenko’s Cautious Support for a Rousey Comeback
Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Shevchenko expressed respect and excitement at the prospect of Rousey fighting again. “She’s still young, and if she feels she can do it, it would definitely be good for the sport,” Shevchenko stated.
However, she immediately tempered expectations of a dream matchup between them. The champion suggested that the timing for such a super-fight has passed and that Rousey’s path back should be a gradual one. Given that Rousey’s UFC career ended with two devastating knockout losses, Shevchenko advised that she should start with “some smaller fights” to rebuild her confidence and sharpness before considering a return to the UFC’s elite.
Why Shevchenko is Not a Potential Opponent
Shevchenko effectively ruled out a blockbuster fight with Rousey, a matchup that would have been a mega-event several years ago. She explained that the competitive landscape has shifted, and their careers are no longer on a collision course.
This stance highlights a key reality in combat sports: legacy and timing are everything. While a fight between the dominant striker in Shevchenko and the legendary grappler in Rousey is a fascinating “what if,” the current champion is focused on new challenges and the next generation of contenders.
Paying Respect to a Pioneer
Throughout the discussion, Shevchenko was effusive in praising Rousey’s foundational impact on women’s MMA. She acknowledged that Rousey “paved the way for all female fighters” in the UFC, breaking barriers and proving that women could headline major pay-per-view events.
This respect underscores a common sentiment among the current crop of female fighters. While the sport has evolved technically since Rousey’s reign, her role as a trailblazer who forced the UFC to embrace women’s divisions is never forgotten.
The Practical Reality of a Comeback
Shevchenko’s advice, while perhaps disappointing for fans hoping for an immediate super-fight, is grounded in the harsh realities of MMA. A fighter returning after a long layoff, especially one who left on difficult terms, faces immense physical and mental challenges.
Jumping directly into a title fight against a well-oiled champion like Shevchenko would be a monumental task. A gradual return against lower-ranked competition would allow Rousey to shake off ring rust, test her skills, and see if the old fire still burns without the immediate pressure of the spotlight.
Conclusion
Valentina Shevchenko’s comments have added a dose of reality to the hype surrounding a potential Ronda Rousey return. While the champion supports the idea and celebrates Rousey’s legacy, she has drawn a clear line: she is not the intended opponent, and the path back must be a smart, calculated one.
For now, the MMA world will continue to watch for any official word from Rousey herself. But if she does decide to return, she would be wise to consider the champion’s advice: earn the spotlight again, don’t just expect it.
FAQ Section
What was Valentina Shevchenko’s main advice for Ronda Rousey?
Shevchenko advised Rousey to take “some smaller fights” first to regain her competitive edge before attempting a high-stakes UFC comeback.
Does Shevchenko want to fight Ronda Rousey?
No, Shevchenko explicitly stated that a fight with Rousey “would have made sense a few years ago,” but she is not interested in it now.
How does Shevchenko view Rousey’s impact on MMA?
Shevchenko credits Rousey as a pioneer who “paved the way” for all female fighters in the UFC and elevated the sport’s profile.
What is the status of Ronda Rousey’s UFC return?
Rousey has not officially announced a return to the UFC. She has been seen training, sparking speculation, but there is no confirmed fight.
When did Shevchenko last fight?
Valentina Shevchenko recently defended her title with a victory over Zhang Weili at UFC 322.
