Ronda Rousey, former UFC champion and pioneer in the women’s division, has admitted she is not neurologically fit to consider a return to the leading mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion. Throughout her career, Rousey suffered multiple blows and traumas that have impacted her physical and mental health, particularly during her final stage with the company before retiring. Despite occasional rumors about a potential comeback, Rousey emphasizes that her well-being is her priority, and she does not feel safe to compete at the highest level, now or in the future.

“The rumors about my return keep popping up from time to time, and I guess it’s flattering to be missed,” Rousey said in an interview for the Insight podcast. “But honestly, it’s not going to happen. I am not neurologically capable of competing at the highest level. I simply can’t,” she clarified.

This statement highlights the long-term risks associated with combat sports, where athletes like Rousey can face serious neurological consequences due to repeated head impacts. Rousey, a key figure in popularizing women’s MMA, offers a stark reminder of the importance of health and safety in the sport.

Rousey points out that neurological injuries accumulate over time and do not improve. “When I started in MMA, I had already suffered a dozen concussions that I endured without stopping. I lived with concussion symptoms for a decade,” she explains.

“In the beginning, I was playing a game with no margin for error. I fought more often than anyone and took on more responsibilities outside the octagon than most. There came a point where even lighter punches hurt me more. I couldn’t take a jab without getting dizzy or experiencing concussion symptoms. Eventually, it became clear that it was not safe for me to keep fighting. I simply could not continue at that high level,” she reveals in an honest discourse about the severe consequences of competing at the highest level.

The first major warning, and almost definitive, came in November 2015. Rousey suffered a knockout loss to Holly Holm after receiving a head kick that kept her out of action for over a year. Upon returning, she did not seem the same. In December 2016, Amanda Nunes ended her UFC career in under a minute, showing that Rousey could no longer endure severe blows in the octagon.

Despite retiring from the UFC, Rousey has continued her career in other fields, such as professional wrestling (WWE) and acting. Her decision not to return to the UFC underscores her maturity and focus on long-term well-being, demonstrating that for her, health takes precedence over any additional sports achievements.