Ronda Rousey’s AEW Debut Sparks Rumors: 5 Potential Foes for the MMA Icon’s Highly-Anticipated In-Ring Return

The professional wrestling world was left stunned by the unexpected arrival of Ronda Rousey at the 2026 Revolution pay-per-view event, hosted by All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Emerging from the crowd, Rousey made her way to the ring immediately following a singles match between Timeless Toni Storm and Marina Shafir, a fellow MMA veteran. This surprise appearance generated significant buzz, sparking speculation about a potential return to wrestling for Rousey in AEW.

Should Rousey decide to join the AEW roster, several intriguing match-ups could be on the horizon. Here are five potential bouts for The Baddest Woman on the Planet, including a highly anticipated rematch from seven years ago.

#5. Toni Storm

Rousey’s debut at AEW Revolution 2026 occurred right after Toni Storm’s victory over Marina Shafir. As Storm returned to the ring at Rousey’s beckoning, the two women seemed poised to clash, but AEW officials intervened to prevent chaos from erupting. If Rousey were to sign with AEW, a feud with Storm could be an exciting and logical first program for her, offering a compelling storyline for fans to follow.

#4. Britt Baker

Despite her prolonged absence from AEW, Britt Baker remains one of the promotion’s top stars. With Baker recently indicating that her return to the ring is contingent upon management’s decision, it’s possible that Tony Khan could bring her back to AEW, potentially setting the stage for a blockbuster match against Rousey. Such a bout would undoubtedly be a major draw, pitting two highly skilled and charismatic performers against each other.

#3. Kris Statlander

Kris Statlander has established herself as a dominant force in AEW’s women’s division, boasting an impressive record and having held both the AEW Women’s World and TBS championships. Her unique blend of intensity and physicality could make her a formidable opponent for Rousey, should the latter decide to join AEW and compete in the ring. A match between these two women would likely be an exhilarating and closely contested encounter.

#2. Marina Shafir

Marina Shafir and Ronda Rousey share a long history, having risen to prominence together as part of the Four Horsewomen in MMA. Both women have since transitioned to professional wrestling, with Rousey achieving great success in WWE and Shafir currently competing in AEW as part of The Death Riders. Given their real-life friendship and in-ring chemistry, a match between Rousey and Shafir could be a truly exceptional and captivating bout.

#1. Mercedes Mone

One of the most memorable matches of Rousey’s WWE career was her encounter with Mercedes Mone (then known as Sasha Banks) at the 2019 Royal Rumble. This highly acclaimed bout showcased the incredible in-ring abilities of both women, who were among the biggest draws in WWE at the time. With Mone now a top attraction in AEW, a rematch between these two wrestling luminaries could be a major coup for Tony Khan’s promotion, should Rousey decide to join the AEW roster as an active competitor.