Imagine witnessing a legend step back into the octagon for one final, emotional showdown. That’s exactly what Luana Santos, UFC bantamweight and lifelong Ronda Rousey admirer, is hoping for—and it’s got the MMA world buzzing. But here’s where it gets controversial: would Rousey’s return be a triumphant farewell or an unnecessary risk?
As Santos prepares to face Melissa Croden at UFC Vegas 112 this Saturday, she can’t help but reflect on the moment she met her idol. Last July, Jacqueline Cavalcanti, a UFC bantamweight contender, invited Santos to watch Rousey spar at Syndicate MMA in Las Vegas. For Santos, it was a dream come true. ‘I was shaking, literally shaking,’ she recalled to MMA Fighting. ‘I kept rehearsing what I wanted to say, but when the time came, all I could manage was, “I love you.”’ Santos, who credits Rousey as a major inspiration for her own MMA journey, even has a framed photo of the meeting in her living room—a testament to the impact Rousey has had on her life.
And this is the part most people miss: While Santos believes Rousey’s legacy is untouchable, she understands the desire for a final, honorable exit. Rousey’s career ended with back-to-back knockout losses to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes, leaving some fans with a bittersweet taste. Santos suggests a farewell bout against longtime rival Miesha Tate, not for redemption, but for closure. ‘As a fan, I’d love to see her fight again,’ Santos admitted. ‘But as an athlete, I think it’s about ending her career on a positive note. It’s a matter of honor.’
This raises a thought-provoking question: Does Rousey owe it to herself—or her fans—to step back into the octagon? Some argue her legacy is already cemented, while others believe a final fight could rewrite the narrative of her departure. Santos, however, is focused on her own journey. Unbeaten in the bantamweight division, she’s eager to prove herself against Croden, a fighter known for her durability. ‘Melissa is tough, but everything in life has a first time,’ Santos quipped, hinting at her confidence in delivering Croden’s first finish. With a well-rounded skill set—including powerful striking and adapted judo techniques—Santos is ready for whatever comes her way.
As the MMA community debates Rousey’s potential return, one thing is clear: her influence on the sport, and fighters like Santos, is undeniable. But should she lace up the gloves one last time? Weigh in below—do you think Rousey’s return would be a fitting end to her storied career, or is it a risk not worth taking?
