The long-awaited return of two of women’s MMA’s biggest pioneers is finally happening in 2026. Former UFC superstar Ronda Rousey and legendary trailblazer Gina Carano are set to headline a massive combat sports event later this month in what is already being called one of the biggest comeback fights in MMA history.
More than two decades after helping women’s mixed martial arts reach the global spotlight, both fighters are returning to the cage for a special showdown promoted by Most Valuable Promotions. The blockbuster card is expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide thanks to its star power, crossover appeal, and stacked lineup of MMA talent.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Main Event | Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano |
| Date | Saturday, May 16, 2026 |
| Time | Preliminary Card: 6 p.m. ET • Main Card: 9 p.m. ET |
| Venue | Intuit Dome |
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
| Streaming | Netflix |
| Fight Division | Women’s Featherweight (145 lbs) |
| Rounds | Five rounds (5 minutes each) |
When is Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano?
The highly anticipated fight between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano is scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026. The event will feature an 11-fight lineup split between preliminary bouts and a star-studded main card.
The preliminary card is set to begin at 6 p.m. ET, while the main card officially starts at 9 p.m. ET. Fans will be able to stream the entire event live on Netflix, making it one of the most accessible MMA events of the year.
The main event will be contested in the women’s featherweight division at 145 pounds. The bout is scheduled for five five-minute rounds using traditional MMA four-ounce gloves.
Venue for the Rousey vs. Carano Fight
The event will take place at the stunning Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. The arena, which serves as the home venue of the Los Angeles Clippers, is expected to host a packed crowd for this historic MMA night.
Los Angeles has hosted several iconic combat sports events over the years, and this card is shaping up to become another unforgettable night for fight fans.
Full Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Fight Card
Main Card – 9 p.m. ET (Netflix)
- Women’s Featherweight: Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano
- Heavyweight: Francis Ngannou vs. Philipe Lins
- Welterweight: Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry
- Featherweight: Salahdine Parnasse vs. Kenny Cross
- Heavyweight: Junior dos Santos vs. Robelis Despaigne
- Flyweight: Muhammad Mokaev vs. Phumi Nkuta
Preliminary Card – 6 p.m. ET (Netflix)
- Welterweight: Jason Jackson vs. Jeff Creighton
- Welterweight: Namo Fazil vs. Jake Babian
- Featherweight: David Mgoyan vs. Albert Morales
- 130-pound Catchweight: Aline Pereira vs. Jade Masson-Wong
- 165-pound Catchweight: Chris Avila vs. Brandon Jenkins
Why This Fight Matters
The return of Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano is more than just another MMA fight. Both women played a major role in transforming women’s combat sports into a global attraction. Carano helped popularize women’s MMA during its early years, while Rousey became one of the biggest crossover stars in UFC history.
Their meeting inside the cage represents a dream matchup fans never expected to see. With major names throughout the lineup and worldwide streaming availability, this event could become one of the most-watched MMA cards of 2026.