Ronda Rousey’s Octagon Return Delayed After Knee Surgery

Former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey’s Octagon return may be a little later than we expected.

In a recent interview with ESPN (via MMAFighting.com) UFC President Dana White revealed that ‘Rowdy’ actually underwent a minor knee surgery yesterday:

“”Ronda Rousey, I don’t know,” White said. “I’m hoping we’re going to get Ronda back this year. She actually just had surgery yesterday on her knee.

Nothing serious, just get in there, scope it and clean it out a little bit. She feels great. Her spirits are great. She’s been training.”

When asked of a possible return date for the former 135-pound queen, White named December or January as possible target dates:

“If she fights, I’m hoping she fights in December. If not, then she would probably fight at the New Years show at the beginning of the year,” White noted.

White also stated that upon her return, Rousey will be granted an immediate title bout regardless of the title-holder. The UFC President also named Holly Holm as a possible return bout for the former champ:

If Miehsa Tate’s still the champion, she’ll fight Miesha Tate. Whoever has the belt is who Ronda Rousey will fight.”

“Injuries happen in this sport and a fight is made. Somebody falls out and somebody else slides in,” he explained.

“I’m not even saying Holly Holm couldn’t be the champion by the time Ronda comes back. So, whoever holds that belt when Ronda’s ready.”

Rousey was initially rumored to be ready to make her Octagon return at the UFC’s inaugural Madison Square Garden event in November. It appears, however, that is no longer the case due to Rousey’s recent knee operation.

Fight fans must start beginning to wonder if we will ever see ‘Rowdy’ compete inside the Octagon again…