Ronda Rousey reportedly finalizing contract with WWE

Former UFC Champion Ronda Rousey is reportedly moving to the WWE.REUTERS/Ricardo Moraes

Former mixed martial arts champion Ronda Rousey may be moving from the octagon to the wrestling ring. She is reportedly finalizing a contract with the World Wrestling Entertainment.

Sources familiar with the situation revealed that Rousey is very near to an agreement that will complete her long-awaited transition to the world of professional wrestling.

The move from mixed martial arts to WWE will not be a complete surprise. In 2015, Rousey made a special appearance at WrestleMania 31 to confront Stephanie McMahon and Triple H. During the show, she performed a hip toss on Triple H before issuing a memorable taunt to McMahon.

"You need to understand something, Steph," Rousey said during the match. "Any ring I step into is mine. If you want me to leave, why don't you make me?"

Since her appearance, Rousey's name has been tied to the WWE, with many fans hoping that the popular champion would make her way to the entertainment company for good.

Rousey is a lifelong fan of the WWE. She even borrowed her nickname "Rowdy" from wrestling star Roddy Piper, who gave her his permission to use it.

The former Ultimate Fighting Championship titleholder has not officially retired from the mixed martial arts organization. However, she has not had a fight since December last year. Furthermore, UFC president Dana White hinted last month that fans may never see Rousey's return, saying he wouldn't want to see her fight in the UFC again.

Rousey's UFC career seemed to have met its end when she was embarrassed by Amanda Nunes at UFC 207 when the defending champion defeated her in just 48 seconds in the first round.

In 2012, Rousey made history by becoming the first female fighter to sign with the UFC. She defended her Women's Bantamweight Champion six times before suffering her first defeat at the hands of Holly Holm in 2015.