Ronda Rousey has been warned that she should test the waters with some tune-up fights before going after world champions in a touted octagon comeback.

Photos: Ronda Rousey through the years - Los Angeles Times

The Olympic bronze medalist was once far and away the greatest female fighter on the planet, before a shock defeat to Holly Holm in 2015 cost her the UFC world title and her unbeaten record. One comeback effort against Amanda Nunes a year later ended in seconds, and she has since retired from the sport.

However, fans have noticed Rousey sporting black eyes in recent media appearances and are theorizing about a comeback. She continues to deny it, despite viewers’ insistence to the contrary.

Valentina Shevchenko recommends Ronda Rousey take tune-up fights before UFC comeback

Speaking with Bloody Elbow in her role as a Stake Ambassador, Valentina Shevchenko was asked if she sees Ronda Rousey as a potential opponent if her comeback is serious. And while it would surely be a massive promotion, the flyweight champion called for realism from her rival.

Valentina Shevchenko celebrates after beating Manon Fiorot at UFC 315

“For the person who was retired for eight years, it probably would be better to have one or two fights just to feel the octagon and its spirit back,” she replied when the matchup was put to her. “It’s one thing when you start to train and feel amazing, in shape and moving sharp.

“But it’s another thing when you go inside of the octagon and face a top opponent of the world. It’s completely different, it’s dangerous and it’s really scary.

“I know she knows that feeling very well but it was also eight years ago, and she has to remind herself what it means to go through the full training camp with this mindset. It takes time.

“From a professional fighter to another professional fighter I advise before you step back to the top level of competition. Have a few fights to get the feel of the spirit of the octagon back.”