UFC women's bantamweight champion is scheduled to re-enter the Octagon on February 28 as the headliner for UFC 184 vs. unbeaten Cat Zingano at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Rousey has beaten two of her last three opponents in less than one minute, so despite Zingano's impressive 9-0 record, some fight fans are already looking to other fighters that they think will pose a greater challenge to Rousey. Of course, the name that jumps to mind is "Cyborg" Cristiane Justino.
Although Rousey and Justino have never fought, their verbal rivalry is the stuff of legend. Rousey has a serious distaste for Justino because of previous steroid issues, and she has continued to mock her PED past viciously. UFC president Dana White has previously said bringing Justino into the UFC could be a nightmare, but as time goes on he has seemed to soften his stance.
Justino still fights for Invicta FC, and will be defending her own featherweight title at the Invicta FC 11 at the Shrine Auditorium the night before Rousey fights. In an interview with The MMA Hour, Justino expressed confidence she'll eventually face Rousey.
"I think this fight will happen," Justino said. "I think all the fans want to watch it, and the UFC wants to make this fight. But I am focused on my next fight now. Charmaine Tweet is my next opponent now."
One major obstacle in the way of Justino vs. Rousey, aside from Justino not being a part of UFC, is her size. She is 10 pounds above the UFC's bantamweight limit, and has already dropped down in size to be a featherweight.
"You know, I believe anything is possible," Justino said. "I don't know. I'm trying a diet now, and [I was] before too, but before I had an injury. I'll try. If it doesn't happen at 135, we can make 145. I don't know. But I'm excited for this fight so I'm going to try my best for this fight to happen for all my fans, and for me and my family."
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