Ronda Rousey, once the most feared woman in the UFC, has said she will have to contemplate her future after a heavy loss to Amanda Nunes in her comeback fight.
More than a year after her dominant run was brutally ended by Holly Holm, Rousey returned to the ring for a shot at the bantamweight title, but heavy-hitting Nunes ended any hope of a glorious return in just 48 seconds.
Many, including Rousey’s mother, have called for the former champ to retire, but in a statement she remained non-committal.
“I want to say thank you to all of my fans who have been there for me in not only the greatest moments but in the most difficult ones. Words cannot convey how much your love and support means to me,” Rousey said.
“Returning to not just fighting, but winning, was my entire focus this past year.
“However, sometimes — even when you prepare and give everything you have and want something so badly — it doesn’t work how you planned.
“I take pride in seeing how far the women’s division has come in the UFC and commend all the other women who have been part of making this possible, including Amanda.
“I need to take some time to reflect and think about the future. Thank you for believing in me and understanding.”
Rousey had a 12-2 record before the loss to Holm last November, and was the biggest star in the sport.
An acting career looks likely for her should she hang up the gloves.
This post originally appeared on ABC News.
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Top Comments
That bout was UNBELIEVABLE. I'm still in shock.
P.S. Rousey was actually undefeated prior to the Holly Holm bout. (Rousey now has a 12-2 record.)
Honestly, she just wasn't in the fight at all, did she even land a punch? I couldn't believe it.
I dare say thats her last ufc fight
If she continues, she seriously gotta go back to her judo and ground roots, she has a horrid stand up game, whatever coach telling her stand up way to go, id way off
Either way she still has wwe to fall back on