Report: Rousey in preliminary talks to return in 2016

Don't count out a 2016 comeback for Ronda Rousey.

The former women's bantamweight champ has had preliminary talks with the UFC about possibly competing before the year is through according to Damon Martin, citing sources speaking to FOX Sports.

During an appearance on "UFC Unfiltered," Dana White ruled Rousey out of UFC 205 in November, the promotion's debut in New York City. Rousey underwent knee surgery in June, which was expected to keep her out of action until at least December.

"She's definitely not fighting in New York," White said. "I'm actually going to start building the New York card this week."

Rousey has not competed since losing her UFC championship to Holly Holm last November. Should she decide to book a fight in December, there are several options, including a long-awaited return to Toronto on Dec. 10 and a year-end card in Las Vegas on Dec. 30.