CM Punk uses his career to warn Ronda Rousey about fighting in MMA at an older age: ‘I’m an expert’

Ronda Rousey will step back into the cage at the age of 39.

The mixed martial arts community was put in a state of shock earlier this month when Rousey’s comeback was suddenly announced.

In her first fight since being knocked out by Amanda Nunes in 2016, Rousey will fight Gina Carano on Netflix. The ex-Strikeforce fighter turned actor is returning after an even longer layoff, having not fought in 17 years.

Both will be looking to overcome the physical hurdles that come with competing in MMA at an older age — something that a star from Rousey’s former pro wrestling organization knows a thing or two about.

Do you agree with Sean Strickland’s comments?

Tell us your thoughts on Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano. ⬇️

CM Punk reacts to ex-WWE star Ronda Rousey making her MMA comeback

In the same year that Rousey competed for the final time before departing MMA for pro wrestling, WWE’s CM Punk made his debut inside the Octagon.

It is safe to say things did not go well for the Chicago native after transitioning to the sport aged 38. CM Punk lost both of his UFC fights, being submitted by Mickey Gall and outpointed by Mike Jackson.

During a recent interview with talkSPORT, he reacted to Rousey looking to find success in MMA at a similar age.

“I think it’s great. We’re going to find out if she’s still got it,” CM Punk said.

“I think fighting at an older age — trust me, I am an expert on this — it’s not the easiest thing to do.

“But she’s fighting somebody who is age comparable, who also has had a long layoff,” he added.

“They’re both big names, both big superstars. I think people are going to tune in to watch this — and I know I will.”

Ronda Rousey could be joined by many more MMA vets on the Netflix card

While the main attraction of Netflix’s very first MMA card will be Rousey’s clash with Carano, they likely won’t be the only veterans of the sport in action.

Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions is expected to fill the undercard at Inglewood’s Intuit Dome with some prominent names.

Nate Diaz is one of the most high-profile stars being discussed by fans. The Stockton star remains a free agent after competing twice in boxing since his 2022 exit from the UFC.

Meanwhile, Francis Ngannou’s PFL contract is nearing its end, and his fellow former UFC heavyweight champ Andrei Arlovski has also been competing away from the Octagon since his departure in 2024.

Elsewhere, Chris Weidman recently teased fighting Anderson Silva in MMA for a third time on the Netflix undercard, while ‘The Spider’s’ latest opponent in the ring, Tyron Woodley, could also be involved.