Is Ronda Rousey quietly training for a UFC comeback? Training Leaks Raise Questions About Hall of Fame Timing

Ronda Rousey, the former UFC bantamweight champion, has become the subject of renewed speculation after recent training footage emerged online. The video, shared on Instagram, shows Rousey participating in pad work and fitness drills at Syndicate MMA in Las Vegas. The leak has reignited comeback rumours and raised fresh questions about the timing of her potential induction into a higher tier of the UFC Hall of Fame.

Rousey's Training Resurfaces Online

The speculation began after Luana Santos posted photos with Rousey during a joint session at Syndicate MMA. Rousey also posted a video of her doing some in-ring workout with a trainer, captioned 'Martial art nerd sh*t".

Santos, who referred to Rousey as her inspiration for entering mixed martial arts, tagged the former champion in a now-viral Instagram story. The footage showed Rousey in athletic gear, hitting pads and working on footwork drills alongside coach Ramona Pasqual.

Despite the visual evidence, Santos' manager Lucas Lutkus quickly clarified that the session was not related to any professional comeback'. According to Lutkus, Rousey has been training purely for fitness and mentorship purposes, not in preparation for a return to active competition, as reported by MMA UK.

Health Concerns Rule Out a Professional Return

Rousey, now 38, has been vocal in recent interviews about the lasting effects of her fighting career. Speaking on multiple platforms, including the 'Untapped' podcast, she revealed that she has been suffering from neurological damage linked to head trauma sustained during her time in both MMA and professional wrestling.

Among the symptoms she described are temporary blindness, balance issues and cognitive lapses. Rousey confirmed that even light impacts to her head can trigger concerning reactions.

These health disclosures came after a comprehensive evaluation conducted in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic and the UFC's medical staff. She is now a participant in a long-term neurological study monitoring former fighters.

UFC Hall of Fame Timing Raises Questions

Rousey was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame's Pioneer Wing in 2018, shortly after retiring from professional MMA. However, with her name resurfacing and her continued cultural relevance in combat sports, some fans are questioning whether she should receive additional honours or a legacy tribute during the UFC's upcoming milestone events.

The speculation coincides with talk of a major UFC card scheduled for July 2026 at the White House, part of the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations. While there is no indication that Rousey will fight, the timing of her public training appearances has led some to suggest she may be included in a ceremonial role or elevated recognition at the event.

Rousey's Enduring Impact on Women's MMA

Rousey's legacy remains central to the evolution of women's MMA. As the UFC's first women's bantamweight champion, she held the title from 2012 to 2015 and successfully defended it six times. Her mainstream appeal helped bring the women's division to prominence, and her early dominance influenced a generation of fighters.

Santos herself cited Rousey as the reason she pursued a career in the sport, highlighting the continued reach of Rousey's impact. Despite her absence from the Octagon, Rousey's influence is still felt within the UFC, fuelling ongoing debate about how her contributions should be formally recognised.