USA Today is reporting, citing sources, that a deal between Ronda Rousey and WWE is imminent and the two parties are currently finalizing the details of her move to the company.
When USA Today contacted WWE for comment, the company did not immediately respond. Rousey herself has not talked much about it and when confronted by a TMZ paparazzo several weeks ago, she said she’d rather keep it as a surprise if it happens.
Gene Le Bell, a personal friend of Rousey who is often part of her training camps, said that occasional appearances in WWE might work better for her rather than a permanent spot on the roster. “I love Ronda, and anything she can do to make money for her and her new husband then I am rooting for her. She will get a lot of money and that’s great.”
Rousey, one of UFC’s top athletes until her big fall from grace following a long, undefeated streak, has often talked about being a pro wrestling fan and made several appearances on WWE television. She was involved in a high-profile segment at WrestleMania 31 with The Rock, Triple H, and Stephanie McMahon, but that was the only time she stepped inside a WWE ring on television.
The former UFC Bantamweight champion has been undergoing wrestling training at Brian Kendrick’s gym and spent a few days at the WWE Performance Center as well.
Two weeks ago, UFC President Dana White said he hoped Rousey would not return to the Octagon following her two back-to-back quick losses. “I wouldn’t want to see it,” White said. “I wouldn’t want it to happen. I care about her. She has got money … and all that stuff. I don’t want to see it happen.”
