Ronda Rousey responds to age criticisms ahead of MMA return: ‘It’s not like my ovaries are fighting’

Former UFC champ Ronda Rousey is set to make an unlikely return to the cage on May 16. Her opponent will be fellow women’s MMA trailblazer Gina Carano.

Given Rousey’s status as one of the best female fighters ever, and one of the most important figures in the sport’s history, her comeback a very big deal. It’s also headlining the first MMA card ever to air on Netflix, which is another feather in her cap.

The doubters, though, will quickly remind you that Rousey is now 39 years old — a few years past the age most fighters start to slow down.

Speaking on CBS Mornings, Rousey clapped back at those doubters. She reminded them that fellow UFC legend Jon Jones is just a year younger than she is, and receives much less criticism about his comeback plans.

Ronda Rousey responds to her doubters

Ronda Rousey fires back at critics bringing up her age ahead of her MMA return:

“I never hear Jon Jones’ age being brought up as a disqualifying factor.

It’s not like my ovaries are fighting. Why are we even talking about this?”

(via @CBSMornings) pic.twitter.com/VybRrgOCWB

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) April 15, 2026

“I never hear Jon Jones’ age being brought up as a disqualifying factor,” the former UFC star said. “It’s not like my ovaries are fighting. Why are we even talking about this?”

Rousey has not fought since late 2016, when she suffered a first-round knockout loss to Amanda Nunes. That was preceded by a shock knockout loss to Holly Holm the year before, which marked the end of her undefeated run in MMA, and her time as a UFC champion.

Her upcoming opponent Carano is older than she is, at 43. The Muay Thai specialist has not fought since 2009, when she was knocked out by Cris Cyborg.

Do you think age will be a factor for Rousey and Carano on May 16?