Amanda Nunes has used Instagram to issue an apology to former opponent Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey’s return lasted just 48 seconds as she suffered defeat by Amanda Nunes

But now, more than a month on from the contest, she has said sorry.

Taking to Instagram, Nunes posted an image of her and Rousey hugging at the end of their contest, alongside a message where she apologised to her opponent before acknowledging her crucial role in the growth of the female divisions in the UFC.

‘Let me take a moment to explain myself,’ Nunes wrote.

‘I was overwhelmed with adrenaline, emotion and hurt at the time. I held so much in during the weeks prior to my fight with Ronda. I might have said or posted some things at the time that I now realize was not the right thing to do.

Nunes celebrated wildly after inflicting a defeat on Rousey which should lead to retirement

Rousey looked dazed and dejected as she left the arena after losing the fight to Nunes

‘I want to apologize to Ronda. Her fans and mine and the UFC as well. Ronda is an amazing athlete and has done so much for this sport, especially for the women.’

Rousey has yet to reveal her future plans but many, including UFC president Dana White, expect her to walk away from the sport.

He said: ‘Her spirits are good and she’s doing her own thing.

‘In the conversation I had with her, if I had to say right here, right now, and I don’t like saying right here, right now because it’s up to her, it’s her thing, but I wouldn’t say she fights again. I think she’s probably done.

‘I think she’s going to ride off in the sunset and start living her life outside of fighting.’