Ronda Rousey returned to MMA with questions around timing, sharpness and rust. Almost ten years away from the sport made even a favourable matchup against Gina Carano feel less predictable than usual.
That uncertainty disappeared quickly on MVP’s first MMA card, broadcast on Netflix last Saturday. ‘Rowdy’ lived up to expectations and submitted Carano with an arm lock in the main event.
Jon Jones was watching closely as part of the broadcast team. He did not sound surprised by the result, but his verdict still added weight to Rousey’s comeback performance.
Jon Jones says Ronda Rousey showed skills today’s fighters still cannot match
In a video shared on MVP’s Instagram, Jones said he expected Rousey to dominate Carano exactly as she did. He also pointed out an aspect that sets her apart from the others.
“Ronda did absolutely unbelievable. She did exactly how I thought she would do, won in less than a minute. I think it was 17 seconds, and I predicted it,” the 38-year-old American began by saying.
“I mean, her judo and her jiu-jitsu, she’s put so many years into it. The other girls still, to this day, are very far behind.”
Ronda Rousey praise will not lead to another fight
Jones’ comments will naturally feed interest in seeing Rousey fight again. Yet the clearest message after the bout made it clear this was a one-night return rather than a comeback run.
Rousey said she wants to have more children and confirmed her retirement after the win. That makes another fight unlikely, even after such a dominant performance.
After reportedly pocketing a US$ 2.2 million purse, which sparked debate online, she appears ready to follow other paths.
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