Veronica Hardy’s story is one many young, and possibly distracted athletes should admire. She realised she needed change in her career, took action, and now is reaping the rewards.
After a forced three-year hiatus from the Octagon due to severe concussions, Hardy has returned to the UFC with renewed focus and is currently riding a career-best win streak. But this comeback isn’t just about fighting—it’s about personal growth, new perspectives, and the positive influence of her husband, MMA legend Dan Hardy.
In an exclusive interview with Combat Sports UK, Veronica Hardy opened up about the journey that has not only rekindled her fighting career but also reshaped her life.
How Dan Hardy and a Life Reset Fuel Veronica Hardy’s Comeback
Veronica Hardy didn’t choose to step away from MMA; it was a break that was forced upon her by a series of concussions that made even daily life challenging. Reflecting on that difficult period, she admitted, “I couldn’t train. I couldn’t really do anything physically for quite a while. It was affecting my everyday life.” For a professional fighter, being unable to train was a huge adjustment, both physically and mentally.
Yet, in that time off, Hardy found an opportunity to look inward. The break allowed her to realign her priorities, change her approach to training, and build a stronger mental foundation. She learned what it truly took to succeed, stating, “It’s not like I didn’t train hard before, but I was training wrong. This break helped me understand myself and get my priorities straight.”
The Importance of Dan Hardy to Veronica Hardy’s Resurgence
One of the most profound changes in Veronica’s life has been her relationship with her husband, Dan Hardy. Known as one of the greatest minds in the sport. Dan has brought more than just coaching to her corner—he’s been a steadfast source of inspiration, guidance, and personal growth.
“I think everything in my life has changed. It’s like a whole 180,” she shared. “Having the right people around me has been the biggest change, and taking away those that don’t suit me or align with me.” Dan Hardy’s influence has extended far beyond the Octagon. “He’s changed my life in ways beyond MMA, beyond the win streak or whatever. He’s helped me improve as a person.”
This support has not only bolstered her confidence, but has also connected her with a community of people who inspire her. With Dan by her side, Veronica feels empowered to continue reaching new heights in her career.
Making Personal Changes
Veronica Hardy’s journey also involved making some tough choices about her personal life. During her hiatus, she realized the importance of surrounding herself with positive influences and was determined to remove negativity from her life. “I was quite ruthless at taking [negative people] out because it’s been so many years where I hadn’t, and I’d just say, ‘Oh yeah, it’ll be okay.’ And clearly, it wasn’t.”
With this renewed focus, she found herself stronger, both mentally and physically, for her return to the Octagon. By keeping only supportive people close, Veronica built a solid foundation that allowed her to tackle her comeback with renewed energy.
Veronica’s return to MMA has been marked by a smarter, more strategic approach to training and fighting. Gone are the days of grinding without direction. Her hiatus taught her the importance of training intelligently—of focusing not just on hard work but on effective work.
“Before, I didn’t really understand what it took to be successful,” she admitted. Now, with her priorities and techniques realigned, she’s back in the UFC, securing three consecutive wins and proving she’s a force to be reckoned with.
New Outlook, New Results
With Dan Hardy’s support and her renewed outlook, Veronica is set to face her next challenge at UFC 309, where she will square off against Eduarda Moura at the iconic Madison Square Garden. While Veronica remains focused on the win, she knows the journey is about more than victories. It’s about personal growth, resilience, and proving that she belongs among the best.
Her determination shines through her words: “I’m coming to win… as long as I win, I don’t care.”
