Irish boxing superstar Katie Taylor has declared herself ready and willing to face UFC pioneer Ronda Rousey in the ring, following a surprise report suggesting the historic crossover bout could happen next year.
Taylor's Open Reaction to Surprise Rumours
Speaking at the WBC convention in Bangkok, Thailand on Tuesday 2 December 2025, Taylor confirmed a report from BoxingScene was the first she had heard of the potential fight. The publication claimed the two combat sports icons could meet in a boxing match in Las Vegas in the coming months.
"This is the first I've heard about it as well, this morning," Taylor stated. "I look at all the headlines, and I'm thinking: 'Okay, I'm up for this fight, I'm ready for this fight, and I'll be very excited for this fight as well.'"
The 39-year-old former undisputed champion praised Rousey, calling her an "iconic figure" in female sport with an "amazing mentality." Taylor emphasised, "You don't get to the position that she's in without a fantastic mind," before labelling the proposed clash a "very interesting fight."
Legends on a Collision Course
The potential matchup would pit arguably the greatest women's boxer of all time against a foundational figure of women's mixed martial arts. Katie Taylor boasts a professional record of 25-1. Her sole loss came against Chantelle Cameron in 2023, a defeat she avenged later that same year. Her last outing was a trilogy victory over Amanda Serrano in July 2025.
In contrast, Ronda Rousey, 38, has been retired from active competition since 2016. She left the UFC with a 12-2 MMA record, having lost her final two bouts via knockout to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes. Despite this, her legacy as a dominant champion known for her armbar submissions remains untarnished. Since retiring, she has pursued careers in film and professional wrestling with WWE.
What Comes Next?
The report has immediately sparked speculation within the combat sports world about the feasibility and magnitude of such an event. A boxing match between Taylor, the Olympic gold medalist, and Rousey, the former UFC bantamweight queen, would represent a unique crossover spectacle.
The Independent has approached Taylor's promoter, Matchroom Boxing, for comment on the developing story. With Taylor openly enthusiastic and Rousey's camp yet to publicly respond, fans will be watching closely to see if this tantalising rumour transforms into a confirmed blockbuster for 2026.
